👉 Cell ion, or ion transport, refers to the movement of ions across cell membranes, which are selectively permeable barriers that regulate the concentration of various charged particles like sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+), and chloride (Cl-) inside and outside cells. This process is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, enabling nerve impulses, muscle contraction, and various metabolic functions. Ion transport occurs through specialized proteins such as ion channels, which allow specific ions to pass through, and pumps, which actively move ions against their concentration gradient, often requiring energy in the form of ATP. These mechanisms ensure that cells can control their internal environment, facilitating proper signaling, nutrient uptake, and waste removal.
