Essential Chemistry for Biologists:

Decoding the Language of Life

Writing on a light board says 'Chemistry for Biologists' and lists the six elements that make up life along with their Bohr models.

Introduction

Professor writing on a light board that shows the six elements that make up life along with their Bohr models.

This resource contains 20 short videos designed to explain basic but important concepts in chemistry to university students in entry-level biology. The goal of this resource is to assist learners in successfully navigating through their first year of Biology, especially in Principles of Biology I, which explores life at the meso and micro levels.

We hope these videos enhance your understanding of chemistry’s role in describing and understanding biological systems, boost your excitement about science, facilitate learning of relevant concepts, and improve your overall academic outcomes!

Build Strong Fundamentals

Get clear explanations of core chemistry topics tailored specifically for biology students, so you can confidently tackle complex biological systems in your courses.

Connect Chemistry & Biology

See how chemical principles apply directly to biological structures and processes, from molecules to cells, bridging the gap between disciplines.

Succeed in First-Year Biology

Designed to support Principles of Biology I, these videos help boost comprehension, support exam prep, and improve academic performance.

Why do Biologists need to understand Chemistry?

Video 1 – The Inseparable Bond of Biology and Chemistry

The videos are also available within the Chemistry for Biologists playlist on the TRU Open Press YouTube channel.

Adoption Form

Are you an educator adopting these resources for your students? Please take a minute to fill out our adoption form and let us know how you are using them. Your responses help enable us to grow and maintain these resources for everyone

Land Acknowledgment

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) campuses are situated on the traditional lands of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc (Kamloops) and the T’exelc (Williams Lake) within Secwepemcúl’ecw, the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépemc. The rich tapestry of this land also encompasses the territories of the St’át’imc, Nlaka’pamux, Tŝilhqot’in, Nuxalk, and Dakelh.

Recognizing the deep histories and ongoing presence of these Indigenous peoples, we express gratitude for the wisdom held by this land. TRU is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment, valuing education as a shared journey. The TRU Open Press, inspired by collaborative learning on this land, upholds open access principles, and freely accessible education for all.