What helps maintain the ion concentration across the membrane of neurons? A) The driving force for any ion B) Na⁺/K⁺ ATPase C) Leak K⁺ channels D) Leak Na⁺ channels

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Na+ and K+ leak into and out of the cell down their concentration gradient. This slow leak is countered, in part, by the Na+/K+ ATPase that uses ATP to move K+ into the cell and Na+ out of the cell, against their concentration gradient. Answer (a) is incorrect as the driving force is simply the difference in concentration gradient and equilibrium potential.

What Helps Maintain the Ion Concentration Across the Membrane of Neurons