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Multiple Choice
What is the source of energy used to power the sodium-potassium pump?
A
Glucose
B
ATP
C
NADH
D
GTP
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of the sodium-potassium pump: It is a type of active transport mechanism that moves sodium (Na+) ions out of the cell and potassium (K+) ions into the cell against their concentration gradients.
Recognize that active transport requires energy because it moves ions against their concentration gradients, which is not a spontaneous process.
Identify the source of energy for active transport: The most common energy source for cellular processes, including the sodium-potassium pump, is adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
Recall that ATP provides energy by releasing a phosphate group, which converts it to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and releases energy that can be used by the pump.
Conclude that the sodium-potassium pump is powered by ATP, as it provides the necessary energy to change the conformation of the pump and transport ions across the cell membrane.