The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. I have been offering a course on molecular biophysics to advanced master level students since 1992 (the students have a background of physics, physical chemistry, chemical engineering, etc.). These students have little exposure to biology and organic chemistry. However, research focus is shifting towards soft matter science which is highly interdisciplinary, and holds a promise of generating customized, smart and biocompatible materials. Therefore, the need for learning physics of polymers and biopolymers has increased many folds. This course is taught with the objective to provide a robust background in these topics to students. I have converted my lecture notes into this publication. There are no textbooks in the market till date that cover the topics discussed herein in a single volume. The content has been used in a one semester course that I teach to MSc Physics students. The mathematical prerequisites for this book are modest.

Macromolecules in solutions can be distinctly characterized from their transport behaviour in the solution phase. The study of the transport processes yields coefficients like the diffusion coefficient, sedimentation coefficient, intrinsic viscosity, friction constant, etc. of the dissolved solute particles. These coefficients are dependent on two parameters. First is the size and shape of the solute particle. Second is the type of the solvent medium and its environment (pH, temperature, pressure, ionic strength, etc.).