Summary
An ATPase that moves three Na+ out and two K+ into the cell per ATP, maintaining the membrane potential.
In depth
The pump binds three Na+ inside and, using ATP, changes shape to release them outside; then two K+ bind from outside and are released inside. Because it moves 3 positive charges out and 2 in, it is electrogenic.
It uses perhaps 20 to 40 percent of a cell's ATP (and up to two-thirds in neurons). The resulting gradients restore the resting potential after nerve impulses and drive secondary transport.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sodium-Potassium Pump?
An ATPase that moves three Na+ out and two K+ into the cell per ATP, maintaining the membrane potential.
Which area of biology covers Sodium-Potassium Pump, and how advanced is it?
Sodium-Potassium Pump is one of the 52 topics in Cell Biology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Active Transport, Plasma Membrane, Osmosis.
Can you give an example of Sodium-Potassium Pump?
Cardiac glycosides such as digoxin inhibit this pump to strengthen heart contractions.
What should I learn before Sodium-Potassium Pump?
Work through the Beginner topics in Cell Biology first, such as Cell Theory, Prokaryotic Cell, Eukaryotic Cell, then return to Sodium-Potassium Pump. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Sodium-Potassium Pump?
The closest topics to Sodium-Potassium Pump are Active Transport, Plasma Membrane, Osmosis, Exocytosis. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Sodium-Potassium Pump?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Sodium-Potassium Pump. To practise the whole of Cell Biology, use the Cell Biology quiz.
How is Sodium-Potassium Pump different from Active Transport?
Sodium-Potassium Pump: An ATPase that moves three Na+ out and two K+ into the cell per ATP, maintaining the membrane potential. Active Transport: Movement of substances against their gradient using energy, usually ATP, via carrier proteins called pumps. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Sodium-Potassium Pump step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Active Transport and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Cell Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.