Question: I read this background article the other day: Sodium and potassium are two of the most important elements in living things. They are present mainly as positively charged ions dissolved in water. The sodium-potassium pump moves sodium ions (Na + ) out of the cell and potassium ions (K + ) into the cell. In both cases, the ions are moving from an area of lower to higher concentration. Energy in ATP is needed for this "uphill" process. Figure below shows how this pump works. Trace these steps from left to right in the figure I am facing a new situation today: Ben and Andy studied minerals and micro-nutrients. Ben studied more about magnesium, zinc and molybdenum, while his buddy Andy studied about sodium and potassium. Using the knowledge I acquired from the background article, how should I answer correctly the following question regarding my new situation: Which person studied less about moving sodium ions (Na + ) out of the cell?
Answer:
Ben