This note endeavors to
provide an overview of the physical chemistry concepts and applications that are
most relevant to biological sciences. Topics covered includes: First Law of
Thermodynamics, Second Law of Thermodynamics, Free Energy and Chemical
Equilibria, The Statistical Foundations of Biophysical Chemistry, Physical
Equilibria, Electrochemistry, The Motions of Biological Molecules, Kinetics:
Rates of Chemical Reactions, Enzyme Kinetics, Molecular Structure and
Interaction: Theory and Biomolecules, Optical Spectroscopy, Magnetic Resonance
and Climate Change.
Such a
textbook projects an in-depth exploration of basic principles of physical
chemistry, with special emphasis on thermodynamics. Its content details basics
and advanced materials in topics that range from basic thermodynamics to the
thermodynamics of systems and mixtures, and even discusses advanced chemical
thermodynamics in detailed detail for the knowledge development of a student who
would want to understand a more complex system. It is ensured throughout the
book that to obtain clarity and explain it, there must be a systematic approach
in how thermodynamic principles apply to chemical reactions and equilibria. This
book is suitable for the students who have thirst to gain deeper insights into
the aspects of thermodynamics applied in physical chemistry.
This lecture note will introduce the major concepts of physical chemistry
based on thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, and kinetics. The topics include
the first law of thermodynamics, heat capacities, enthalpy, thermochemistry,
free energy, Helmholtz and Gibbs free energy; and an application of free energy
to phase transitions, mixtures, and equilibrium. Common equations and symbols
are summarized in detail, such that assimilation of knowledge is enhanced. For
students, this is a great source material for those taking courses in physical
chemistry-this book sets out clearly the structure of fundamental ideas and
solving techniques.