Chemistry for Biologists provides a focused yet chemically and mathematically rigorous introduction to those key aspects of chemistry that form the basis of biological processes.
Written in a straightforward, accessible style, the book begins with an overview of basic chemical concepts. Building on these core principles, the reader is guided through subjects such as the structure and properties of organic molecules, equilibria, energetics, kinetics, biomolecules, reaction mechanisms, metabolism and structural methods. The relevance of each chemical concept to the study of biology is clearly explained at every stage, enabling students to develop a deep appreciation of the chemistry that underpins their chosen subject, and become confident in applying this knowledge to their own studies.
'The text is clear, readable, and seeks to put difficult concepts in chemistry into context, explaining why a biologist will need to understand them. It is ideal for self-directed learning and I have every intention of recommending it to my students.' Professor John Nicholson, St Mary's University College, Twickenham
'I think this text is ground-breaking; it is ideal for bioscience students and covers all the chemical basics I would expect (and more). I will take great pleasure using this as a resource for my students.'
Dr Mark Howard, School of Biosciences, University of Kent Chemistry for Biologists provides a focused yet chemically and mathematically rigorous introduction to those key aspects of chemistry that form the basis of biological processes.
Written in a straightforward, accessible style, the book begins with an overview of basic chemical concepts. Building on these core principles, the reader is guided through subjects such as the structure and properties of organic molecules, equilibria, energetics, kinetics, biomolecules, reaction mechanisms, metabolism and structural methods. The relevance of each chemical concept to the study of biology is clearly explained at every stage, enabling students to develop a deep appreciation of the chemistry that underpins their chosen subject, and become confident in applying this knowledge to their own studies.
Key features
· Comprehensively covers the chemistry needed by all students seeking to understand biological processes at a fundamental level.
· Numerous boxed features highlight key ideas and explore more advanced concepts.
· Contains a wealth of engaging examples throughout the text, applying the theory to biology in practice.
· Self-test question sets at the end of each chapter are included to help consolidate understanding of key concepts, and full answers are supplied at the back to enable students to assess their own progress.
· An appendix of basic mathematical tools for biochemistry is included to help explain key mathematical concepts and, crucially, their relevance to the subject.
For biology and biosciences undergraduates with little background in chemistry who need to bring their skills up to scratch quickly, and any students who wish to develop their confidence in chemistry to take their studies further, this book will be an invaluable resource.
Dr David Reed holds an honorary fellowship with the University of Edinburgh. He has extensive experience in delivering chemistry courses to students of biological sciences.
