Sodium-potassium pumps maintain the electrochemical gradient across the cell membrane by pumping sodium out of the cell and potassium into the cell against their concentration gradients. This helps generate a negative membrane potential, which is necessary for various cellular processes like neurotransmission and muscle contraction. Additionally, the pump helps regulate cell volume and stabilize the resting membrane potential.
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The symbol for sodium is Na and the symbol for potassium is K.
sodium chloride
Sodium-potassium ATPase is a membrane protein that helps maintain the sodium and potassium balance in cells by pumping three sodium ions out of the cell for every two potassium ions pumped in.
Potassium and sodium are important for nerve function, muscle contraction, and maintaining fluid balance in the body. They help regulate blood pressure, transmit electrical impulses in the body, and support overall cell function. Maintaining the right balance of potassium and sodium is essential for proper physiological function.
Yes, the sodium-potassium pump is a protein.