Physics Thinking for the Life Sciences

This textbook provides an introduction to the physics of life science, focusing on applying physics thinking to understanding biological systems such as whole organisms, organs, single cells, biomolecules, or materials of biological origin (e.g. foodstuffs).

It is divided into three parts, the first explores macroscopic physics. Chapters discuss motion, force, and energy and apply these concepts to solid and liquid materials as well as organs and whole organisms. The second part of the book considers microscopic physics, which deals with molecular behaviour, e.g. protein folding/ unfolding, diffusion, and self-organization. The final part focuses on mesoscopic physics, applying the concepts from the preceding chapters to the description and understanding of aspects of living cells.

Readers are expected to be familiar with ordinary algebra and elementary functions (including exponential, logarithms and trigonometric functions) but not more advanced mathematics, such as calculus or vectors. Calculus and vectors are used sparingly, mainly for illustration, but are not required for solving the problems included with each chapter. These problems are directly relevant to life science and aim to teach readers how to use physics in their fields.

This book will be a valuable textbook for first-year students of biophysics, biological physics, food physics, medical physics, veterinary physics and physics for life science.

Key features:

• Algebra-based and beginner-friendly.
• Includes examples and problem sets with answers in every chapter.
• Accompanied by a solutions manual for instructors.