An Overview of Quantum Biology

Quantum mechanics has long been foundational in physics and chemistry, but biology has typically adhered to classical physics. Recent studies challenge this, revealing quantum mechanic’s pivotal role in biological processes. This chapter offers a primer on quantum mechanics, showcasing its broader relevance in biology. Photosynthesis, achieving near-perfect efficiency, now finds explanation through quantum mechanical concepts like superposition and coherence. Magnetoreception, guiding certain animals via Earth's magnetic field, involves quantum entanglement in the radical-pair mechanism. Our olfactory prowess, defying classical models, may involve inelastic tunnelling of odorant molecules’ vibrational frequencies. Quantum phenomena also influence enzyme catalysis, immunology, and evolution. Biophotons, faint light emissions within organisms, hint at cellular communication potential. All these applications motivate investigations in another new direction—application of quantum biology to understand biological processes of low radiation doses and dose rates. Together, quantum biology's potential to revolutionize life's understanding is immense, and this chapter aims to provide the readers a glimpse into this exciting field.