Explain why K+ channels not allow Na+ to pass even though Na+ is a smaller ion, and Na+ and K+ are in the same column/group on the periodic table and share similar properties
Explain why K+ channels not allow Na+ to pass even though Na+ is a smaller ion, and Na+ and K+ are in the same column/group on the periodic table and share similar properties?
Potassium channels are specialized membrane-spanning proteins made up of four subunits that create a selective pathway for potassium ions (K+) to pass through cell membranes These channels play a crucial role in facilitating the efficient and highly selective transport of K+ ions into and out of cells. It's noteworthy that potassium channels display a unique selectivity, favoring the passage of larger K+ ions (with an ionic radius of 1.3 Å) over smaller sodium ions (Na+ ions with a radius of 1.0 Å) by a substantial ratio of approximately 1000:1.
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