Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title PHYSICS OF LIFE
Code PHYS382
Coordinator Prof P Weightman
Physics
Peterw@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2016-17 Level 6 FHEQ Second Semester 7.5

Aims
  • To explain the constraints on physical forces which are necessary for life to evolve in the Universe
  • To describe the characteristics of life on earth
  • To describe physical techniques used in the study of biological systems

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the module the student should have:

  • An understanding of the framework of physical forces within which life is possible

  • An understanding of the nature of life on earth


  • Familiarity with physical techniques used in the study of biological systems

Syllabus
1  1

The Universe

Brief overview of the basic physical forces. Necessary conditions for the evolution of the Universe into a system in which chemistry and life are possible. The evolution of atoms. Nuclear stability.

 

The molecular basis of life

The chemistry of life on earth

 

The genetic code and the chirality of life.

DNA, RNA amino acids and proteins. Protein folding. Chirality of living systems.

 

Physical techniques fo r studying biological systems

X-ray and optical techniques for the determination of the structure and function of biological systems.

 

Thermodynamic considerations and self organisation in chemical systems

Brief overview of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. The arrow of time.

Chemical processes close toequilibrium, Free energies, crystallisation, Order and inactivity.

Chemical processes far from equilibrium. Non equilibrium thermodynamics

Energy flows. Instability and self organisation

 

The importance of information in biology

Biological evolution.

 

Summary of the major transitions in evolution

No foresight and no way back.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Lecture - Lecture

Tutorial - Tiutorial

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 16
Lecture
  2
Tiutorial
      18
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 57
TOTAL HOURS 75

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Unseen Written Exam  1 1/2 hours  2  100  Yes  Standard UoL penalty applies  Assessment 1 Notes (applying to all assessments) Written Examination  
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.
Explanation of Reading List: