Question

How do ion pumps in cell membranes operate?

Answer 1

the pump will transfer the ion according to the concentration gradient passively. in some there will be some active transport will be followed using atp molecules

Answer 2

I understand, but what is the exact mechanics of how they work?

Answer 3

an ion transporter, also called an ion pump, is a transmembrane protein that moves ions across a plasma membrane against their concentration gradient, in contrast to ion channels, where ions go through passive transport. These primary transporters are enzymes that convert energy from various sources, including ATP, sunlight, and other redox reactions, to potential energy stored in an electrochemical gradient. This energy is then used by secondary transporters, including ion carriers and ion channels, to drive vital cellular processes, such as ATP synthesis.

See this diagram on the classic ion pump, Na+/K+ ATPase
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Scheme_sodium-potassium_pump-en.svg
read this:
http://www.rikenresearch.riken.jp/eng/research/6768

Answer 4

Thank you!