Red blood cells require potassium to function properly. The concentration of potassium molecules inside a red blood cell, however, is usually higher than the concentration of potassium in the blood. Explain how potassium molecules are likely to enter a red blood cell.
2007-01-02 12:36:39 · 3 answers · asked by Tanya :] 4 in Education & Reference ➔ Homework Help
Moving molecules from low concentration to higher concentration requires energy - this is active transport. Special proteins in the plasma membrane bond with the molecules on the low concentration side; the cell uses ATP energy to change the shape of the protein and flip the molecule out on the high side. The protein returns to its original shape to transport another molecule.
2007-01-02 12:42:23 · answer #1 · answered by ecolink 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Oxygen
2007-01-02 22:09:43 · answer #2 · answered by Earth to Mars 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Selective permeability?
2007-01-02 20:57:50 · answer #3 · answered by Privratnik 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋