Can You Calculate Passive Sodium Current from Active Potassium Current?

In summary, the pump in this scenario is electrogenic, with a ratio of 3 Na ions being pumped in for every 2 K ions pumped out. The active current of Na is given as 30 E-9, and the question asks to find the passive current of Na. Since the cell is in steady state and the concentrations of Na and K are constant, we can use the equation I' (Na) / I' (K) = 3/2 to find the active current of K. This is then used to determine the passive current of Na, which is the same magnitude but opposite direction of the active current. Therefore, the passive current of Na is -30 E-9.
  • #1
higherme
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Homework Statement



A pump is electrogenic, meaning that 3 Na ions are pumped in for 2 K ions that pumps out. Given that the active current --> I' (Na) 30 E-9 , find the passive current of Na --> I (Na). Assume cell is in steady state so Vm, [Na] inside and [K] inside is constant.


Homework Equations



passive current Na/passive current K = active current Na/ active current of K = 3/2

Is it possible to find a value for passive Na current if I don't know the passive current of K?

I' (Na) / I' (K) = 3/2
30 E-9 / I' (K) = 3/2
I' (K) =2 E-8 , so this is the active current of K+ ion. I don't get how I can use this to find the passive current of Na
 
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  • #2
actually, would this be right

the passive current of Na is the same as the active current of Na... same magnitude, but different direction. So since give active current is +30E-9... then I don't even need any equations to find the passive current of Na because it's simply the same but negative --> - 30E-9

is this correct ?
 

FAQ: Can You Calculate Passive Sodium Current from Active Potassium Current?

What is an electrogenic membrane pump?

An electrogenic membrane pump is a type of protein found in the cell membrane that is responsible for transporting ions across the membrane. It uses energy from ATP to move ions against their concentration gradient, creating an electrical potential difference across the membrane.

How does an electrogenic membrane pump work?

An electrogenic membrane pump has a specific binding site for the ion it transports. When the ion binds to the site, ATP is hydrolyzed, providing energy for the pump to change its shape and move the ion across the membrane. The pump then releases the ion on the other side of the membrane and returns to its original shape.

What types of ions can be transported by an electrogenic membrane pump?

Electrogenic membrane pumps can transport a variety of ions, including sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride. The specific pump found in a cell depends on the type of ion it needs to transport and the function of the cell.

What is the significance of electrogenic membrane pumps in cells?

Electrogenic membrane pumps play a crucial role in maintaining the electrochemical balance of cells. They help to establish and regulate the membrane potential, which is essential for many cellular processes such as nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and nutrient uptake.

How do electrogenic membrane pumps differ from other types of membrane transport proteins?

Unlike other types of membrane transport proteins, electrogenic membrane pumps use energy from ATP to actively transport ions against their concentration gradient. This allows for the establishment of an electrical potential difference across the membrane, which is important for many cellular functions.

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