Biophysics: An Introduction

by Roland Glaser

Biophysics, Science, Natural Science, Applied Science, Modern Science

Genres: Physics, Science, Biology, Textbooks

378 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.