The purpose of the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase pump in the neuronal membrane is to
A)depolarize the membrane.
B)repolarize the membrane.
C)establish the Na+ and K+ gradients necessary for the development of an action potential.
D)secrete myelin.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Na+/K+-ATPase pump plays a critical role in establishing the concentration gradients of sodium and potassium ions across the neuronal membrane. This gradient is necessary for the development of an action potential, which is the basic mechanism underlying neuronal communication. Specifically, the pump helps to maintain a high concentration of potassium ions inside the neuron and a low concentration of sodium ions outside the neuron, creating a voltage difference across the membrane known as the resting potential.

The Purpose of the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase Pump in the Neuronal Membrane