L3 Membrane Transport Flashcards
What is the primary role of transport proteins?
To control the interaction of the cell with its environment.
What is the difference between active and passive transport?
Active transport requires energy to move substances against the gradient, while passive transport does not.
What creates the electrochemical gradient?
The combination of chemical and electrical gradients across a membrane.
How do ion channels achieve selectivity?
Through specific filters that favor certain ions over others.
What is the role of co-transport systems?
To couple the movement of one ion with another solute, either in the same or opposite directions.
How does the patch clamp technique work?
It measures the gating behavior of individual ion channels.
What is an example of a pump used in active transport?
The sodium/potassium pump.
Why is passive transport dependent on active transport?
Active transport establishes the gradients that passive transport uses to move solutes.
