Cell Membrane and Active Transport

What is active transport in the cell membrane?

A process that uses energy to move molecules against their concentration gradient from low to high.

What energy source does active transport use?

ATP (adenosine triphosphate).

Name two types of bulk transport processes.

Endocytosis and Exocytosis.

What is the function of protein pumps in active transport?

To transport ions and molecules across the membrane using energy.

What is the Sodium Potassium Pump?

A type of protein pump that moves 3 sodium ions out of the cell and 2 potassium ions into the cell.

How does the Sodium Potassium Pump create an electrical gradient?

By moving 3 Na+ out and 2 K+ into the cell, leading to a net negative charge inside the cell.

What happens during endocytosis?

The cell membrane in-folds around a particle to bring it into the cell.

Differentiate between phagocytosis and pinocytosis.

Phagocytosis is 'cell eating' (taking in solids), while pinocytosis is 'cell drinking' (taking in liquids).

What type of substance does exocytosis transport out of the cell?

Hormones, waste products, or other materials in bulk.

How does membrane fusion occur during exocytosis?

The membrane surrounding the material fuses with the cell membrane to release its contents.

What is the significance of the concentration gradient created by the Sodium Potassium Pump?

It helps in maintaining the electrical charge necessary for nerve signal transmission.

What role does the phosphate group play in active transport?

It helps change the shape of the protein pump to transport molecules.

What is the space between two nerve cells called?

The synapse.

Why is energy required in active transport?

To move molecules against their concentration gradient.

What are the main types of molecules transported by protein pumps?

Ions, specifically sodium and potassium.

What is the primary function of endocytosis in white blood cells?

To engulf and digest pathogens as part of the immune response.

What is the shape change in protein pumps dependent on?

The binding and release of phosphate groups from ATP.

How do cells primarily uptake nutrients?

Through processes such as endocytosis.

What occurs during the 'cell drinking' process?

The cell takes in small liquid droplets through pinocytosis.

What type of transport mechanism do neurons primarily utilize?

Active transport mechanisms like the Sodium Potassium Pump.

How does endocytosis differ from exocytosis?

Endocytosis brings materials into the cell, while exocytosis forces materials out.

What type of transport is referred to as 'bulk transport'?

Endocytosis and exocytosis.

What effect does active transport have on cellular concentrations?

It actively maintains or establishes concentration gradients.

Why do nerve cells depend on the Sodium Potassium Pump?

To restore the resting membrane potential necessary for signaling.

What happens to the phosphate group during the function of the Sodium Potassium Pump?

It is used to change the pump's shape and is then released.

What is the primary role of exocytosis in hormone secretion?

To release hormones from cells into the bloodstream.

How does the immune system use endocytosis?

To take in and destroy pathogens.

What is responsible for maintaining the nerve impulse mechanism?

The concentration gradient created by the Sodium Potassium Pump.

How often does the Sodium Potassium Pump cycle?

It continuously cycles to maintain ion gradients.

What is the outcome of the sodium release per cycle of the Sodium Potassium Pump?

3 Na+ ions are pumped out of the cell.

What is pinocytosis utilized for in the cell?

It is used to take in nutrients and other small molecules.

What can trigger exocytosis in cells?

Signals such as hormonal or neural stimuli.

What type of transport also occurs during immune responses?

Endocytosis (specifically phagocytosis).

How does the cell membrane rearrange during exocytosis?

The cell membrane changes shape to facilitate the release of materials.

What is the role of ATP in protein pumps?

ATP provides the necessary energy for the pump to function.

What is a characteristic of active transport compared to passive transport?

Active transport requires energy, while passive transport does not.

What happens if the Sodium Potassium Pump malfunctions?

It can disrupt resting membrane potential and nerve signaling.

What are the two main forms of transport in active transport?

Protein pumps and bulk transport mechanisms (endocytosis and exocytosis).

Why is the Sodium Potassium Pump crucial for nerve function?

It helps create and maintain the electrical charge that facilitates nerve impulses.

What are the components that bind to the Sodium Potassium Pump?

Sodium and potassium ions.

How do nerve cells communicate with each other?

Through synapses and the release of neurotransmitters.

What effect does endocytosis have on the cell membrane?

It decreases the surface area of the cell membrane.

What is the significance of 3:2 ratio in sodium and potassium transport?

It establishes a net negative charge inside the cell, crucial for electrical signaling.

What aids in the fusion of vesicles during exocytosis?

The membranes of vesicles and the cell membrane merge together.

In terms of transport mechanisms, what distinguishes neurons from other cells?

Their reliance on active transport for generating action potentials.