Introduction to Biophysics

Module description

Module Description

This module is a basic introduction to Chemistry and Cell Biology to allow all students to reach a basic level of knowledge regardless of previous experience at A-level. It will allow students to understand the basic chemical reaction types which occur in living cells and be able to describe living things using the language of chemistry and physics. Students will be able to describe cellular architecture and the roles of major organelles and the key biological macromolecules of DNA, proteins and carbohydrates.

Learning aims & outcomes

The purpose of this module is to learn about how the basics of now life is organised at the cellular level. This will bring all students up to a standard level of Chemistry and Cell Biology knowledge regardless of whether then have previously studied Chemistry or Biology A-level. The students will learn the basic types of Chemical reactions which occur within cells (e.g. acid-base, redox), basic cellular architecture and the major biological macromolecules ? DNA, proteins and carbohydrates.

At the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the major types of chemical reactions and major classifications of chemical substances found in living things, how chemical changes relate to cell function, and cellular architecture
• Recognise important cell types and be able to describe how living things are related to each other
• Explain the principles of operation of genes, proteins, carbohydrates and membranes
• Demonstrate how relatively simple concepts from chemistry can be used to understand very complex systems such as a living cell
• Use learning resources from different disciplines and combine information from different sources
• Communicate by describing biological processes and architecture in the language of chemistry and physics
• Apply key concepts in physics and chemistry to other disciplines

Assessment details

Details of the module's assessment/s

Type	Weighting	Marking model
Written two hour exam (May) Coursework (Fortnightly problem sheets) Quizzes	70% 10% 20%	Model 2 - Double Marked

Please note: - module assessment may be subject to change. If you have any questions, please contact ug-physics@kcl.ac.uk

Teaching pattern

Synchronous lectures (2 hour per week)

Problem class (1 hour per week)

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.