What happens first: In transport of impermeable solutes across a membrane:

Question

Influx of Na+ into the cell down its concentration gradient or ATP-dependent active transport of Na+ ions out of the cell? Explain

Answer 1

Before a concentration gradient of Na+ is really established it must be pushed out of the cell so that the outside of the cell has a high concentration of Na+ and the inside of the cell has a low concentration of Na+. It takes energy from the cell to initially establish a concentration gradient. ATP=Energy. Therefore the active transport of Na+ outside of the cell must occur first. If you liked this answer, or would like to know more consider scheduling a lesson! I hope this helped!