The sodium-potassium pump is a type of __________ that moves sodium (Na⁺) and potassium (K⁺) ions against their concentration gradients across the __________. This process requires energy in the form of __________because the ions are being transported from areas of low concentration to areas of high concentration, which does not happen naturally.
Active transport is necessary for maintaining __________, which means keeping a stable internal environment. Unlike passive transport, which moves substances naturally from high to low concentration, active transport requires energy input to push substances in the opposite direction. This process is essential for keeping cells alive and functioning, making it an important example of how cells maintain balance in the body.
