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In nerve cells, sodium-potassium pumps exchange two K+ for three Na+ across the cell membrane. What is the primary purpose of this exchange?
  • a)
    To propagate an action potential
  • b)
    To store electrical and chemical potential energy
  • c)
    To increase the concentration of Na+ inside the cell
  • d)
    To increase the concentration of K+ outside the cell
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
Verified Answer
In nerve cells, sodium-potassium pumps exchange two K+ for three Na+ a...
The primary purpose of the sodium-potassium pump is to maintain the electrochemical gradient across the cell membrane, which is crucial for the proper functioning of nerve cells and other cells in the body. The pump actively transports three sodium ions (Na+) out of the cell while simultaneously importing two potassium ions (K+) into the cell. This exchange helps create a concentration gradient and electrical potential difference across the membrane.
By pumping Na+ out and K+ in, the sodium-potassium pump contributes to the establishment and maintenance of the resting membrane potential, which is necessary for nerve cell excitability. The resting membrane potential allows nerve cells to respond to stimuli and propagate action potentials, which are electrical signals that enable communication within the nervous system.
Additionally, the exchange of Na+ and K+ by the pump helps store potential energy in the form of an electrochemical gradient. This stored energy can be utilized when needed for various cellular processes, such as the generation of action potentials, active transport of other molecules, and maintenance of osmotic balance.
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In nerve cells, sodium-potassium pumps exchange two K+ for three Na+ across the cell membrane. What is the primary purpose of this exchange?a)To propagate an action potentialb)To store electrical and chemical potential energyc)To increase the concentration of Na+ inside the celld)To increase the concentration of K+ outside the cellCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? for MCAT 2025 is part of MCAT preparation. The Question and answers have been prepared according to the MCAT exam syllabus. Information about In nerve cells, sodium-potassium pumps exchange two K+ for three Na+ across the cell membrane. What is the primary purpose of this exchange?a)To propagate an action potentialb)To store electrical and chemical potential energyc)To increase the concentration of Na+ inside the celld)To increase the concentration of K+ outside the cellCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? covers all topics & solutions for MCAT 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for In nerve cells, sodium-potassium pumps exchange two K+ for three Na+ across the cell membrane. What is the primary purpose of this exchange?a)To propagate an action potentialb)To store electrical and chemical potential energyc)To increase the concentration of Na+ inside the celld)To increase the concentration of K+ outside the cellCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?.
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