Behaviour of Biomolecules

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Understand the concepts of chemical potential and its relevance in biology
• Understand thermodynamics of ligand binding and how it can be used.
• Understand the principles underlying spectroscopy and be familiar their uses.
• Understand the properties of free radicals and their reactions
• Determine how ions behave in solution (ideal solutions, ionic strength)
• Explain the main reaction mechanisms found in Biological Chemistry
• Role of metal ions in biology

The syllabus will cover the following areas:

1) Reactions mechanisms that underpin biological chemistry

2) The thermodynamic properties of gases and solutions, including the concept of chemical potential

3) The properties of ions in solution, osmosis and the Donnan effect.

4) Ligand binding to macromolecules

5) Metal ions in Biology

6) Application of spectroscopy to biomolecules

Teaching and learning methods

The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures supported with on-line tests to reinforce learning. Mathematical concepts will be supported through the introduction of an on-line resource.

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

Price, Dwek, Ratcliffe and Wormald. Principles and Problems in Physical Chemistry for Biochemists.

Crowe and Bradshaw. Chemistry for the Biosciences.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.