Biophysics: An Introduction

by Roland Glaser

Biophysics is the science of physical principles underlying all processes of life, including the dynamics and kinetics of biological systems. This fully revised 2 nd English edition is an introductory text that spans all steps of biological organization, from the molecular, to the organism level, as well as influences of environmental factors. In response to the enormous progress recently made, especially in theoretical and molecular biophysics, the author has updated the text, integrating new results and developments concerning protein folding and dynamics, molecular aspects of membrane assembly and transport, noise-enhanced processes, and photo-biophysics. The advances made in theoretical biology in the last decade call for a fully new conception of the corresponding sections. Thus, the book provides the background needed for fundamental training in biophysics and, in addition, offers a great deal of advanced biophysical knowledge.

Genres: Physics, Science, Biology, Textbooks

427 pages, Hardcover

First published November 23, 2004

Reviews

[Martina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glaser's Biophysics is an excellent introductory book to the whole field. I think it was written specifically to suit the needs of beginners. The structure of the book implies so; the first part, "Molecular structure of biological systems", is a very complete revision of the many things a student has learned in other courses (like biochemistry and atomic&molecular physics), and can also serve as a great source of information for those less fortunate in their curriculum. Even though that part starts on quantum-mechanical terrain, it's nothing to worry about. It's a story, with very little formulas, and I've yet to notice a wave function somewhere. Because it's basically a story, it works great for understanding orbitals or the processes in photosynthesis.

The second part, "Energetics and dynamics of biological systems", is a mix of thermodynamics, dynamics and bioenergetics. The thermodynamical set-up is done thoroughly and with a liberal dose of partial derivatives sprinkled in. Afterwards, it's a fine melange of fluxes, forces, Onsager's relations, equilibriums, various potentials, diffusions... and all is thoroughly explained with good old equations.

The last two parts might not be included in a regular biophysics course, but I found them interesting, especially the last part which discusses models of evolution and neural processes. Though for regular student, there is more then enough to study in the first two parts.

[Keir Havel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid text on biophysics. However, it has no exercises.