This presentation discusses the emerging field of quantum biology. Quantum biology refers to applying quantum mechanics principles to biological systems and processes. Many biological processes involve energy conversions that occur through quantum mechanical means. It has been an area of science since the early 1900s when quantum physics was developed, founded by scientists like Erwin Schrodinger. Some examples covered include how European robins use cryptochrome in their retinas to sense the Earth's magnetic field for migration via quantum effects. The dual wave-particle nature of light is also discussed as a fundamental example of quantum properties. Several references on the topic are provided.

1. WatPD Presentation
By Geeti Ara Mohua
3A Biochemistry and Biotechnology Sp.
11 November, 2015

2.  Definition:
Quantum biology refers to applications
of quantum mechanics and theoretical
chemistry to biological objects and problems.
Many biological processes involve the
conversion of energy into forms that are usable
for chemical transformations and
are quantum mechanical in nature.
 Emerging area of science but still speculative
 Hugely exciting and ever growing

3.  Its been around 1900s. This branch of
science was discovered when “Quantum
Physics” was developed.
 Quantum physics derives its very name from
the discreteness of nature. The Latin
“quantum?” asks the question “how much?”
and even colloquially a quantum is nowadays
a “small portion.”
 Highly influenced by Co-Founder of Quantum
Mechanics: Erwin Schrödinger

8.  European robin migrates from
Scandinavia down to the
Mediterranean every autumn.
 Navigate by sensing the
Earth's magnetic field using
Cryptochrome in the robin’s
retina.
 Cryptochrome is light
sensitive.

9. Can plants be answers to physics?
- IMPORTANT
- Colorful and Beautiful
- Organic
- Self-sustaining
- Diverse
- Healthy (but some poisonous!)
- Food (Tasty vegetables or to some may be….)
- Interesting

12.  Wave-particle duality of light: A paradigmatic
example for this fact is the dual nature of
light that manifests itself which we would
describe as a “coexistence of mutually
excluding possibilities” in quantum
mechanics.

14.  http://www.tubechop.com/watch/7156897
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this
video reflect the views of Garret John. The
following program/report contains
flashing images/flash photography that may
concern some viewers.

15.  Arndt, M., Juffmann, T., & Vedral, V. (2009). Quantum physics meets
biology.HFSP Journal, 3(6), 386–400.
http://doi.org/10.2976/1.3244985
 Jim Al-Khalili : A professor of physics at the University of Surrey.
https://www.ted.com/talks/jim_al_khalili_how_quantum_biology_might_expl
ain_life_s_biggest_questions .
 Lloyd, S. (2014). Quantum Biology: Better Living Through Quantum
Mechanics. The nature of reality.
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/blogs/physics/2014/03/quantum-life/
 “Quantum Effects Of Photosynthesis Could Improve Energy
Efficiency” by Charles Q. Choi (2007).
 Garret John: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15pOr1E6hvc

16. Questions?
Thank you for listening.