What is the function of the Na+-K+ pump in nerve impulse movement?

The function of the Na+-K+ pump in nerve impulse movement is to facilitate the movement of ions across the membrane, which is essential for establishing and maintaining the resting membrane potential and the propagation of action potentials in neurons. The Na+-K+ pump actively transports sodium ions (Na+) out of the cell and potassium ions (K+) into the cell, typically in a ratio of three sodium ions out for every two potassium ions in. This process is crucial because it helps create a concentration gradient where sodium is more concentrated outside the cell and potassium is more concentrated inside.

During an action potential, this gradient allows for the rapid influx of sodium ions when the neuron depolarizes, which contributes to the nerve impulse traveling along the axon. The pump's continuous operation restores the resting state of the cell membrane after an impulse has passed, enabling the neuron to be ready for subsequent signals. Therefore, the Na+-K+ pump is integral to the electrochemical gradients that underlie nerve impulse conduction.