The Chemistry of Life

Pearson introduces the chemical foundations of biology through readings, short video material and interactive activities. Water, carbon, bonds and large biological molecules provide the central topics. It suits learners who want to connect introductory chemistry with living systems and prefer a compact, reading-led course to a long sequence of filmed lectures.

What you will learn

• Connect atomic interactions with biological properties.
• Examine the roles of water and carbon.
• Compare functions of major biomolecules.

Who this suits

Beginners approaching the chemical foundations of biology; check that the reading and interactive format matches your preferred way of studying.

Before you enroll

Use the lessons for conceptual study and problem solving. Chemical demonstrations do not make an activity suitable for an unsupervised home experiment. Check the assumed mathematics and chemistry background, show units in calculations and compare your reasoning with worked solutions rather than memorizing an answer.

Coursera offers paid enrollment or subscription access. Check the enrollment screen for assessment and certificate terms, trials and any financial-aid options. Provider access terms can change; review them before paying.

Put it into practice

Make a concept map linking chemical bonds, water and a chosen biomolecule. Explain one connection in your own words and identify where a biological example needs a more detailed chemical explanation.

Source and review

This overview is based on the provider's published information, checked on 12 October 2026. It is an editorial assessment, not a claim that we completed the resource. Time filters are approximate study ranges; projects and exercises can take longer.

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