Question

A quantum-mechanical effect called "tunneling" is important in electron transfer processes in biology. Quantum effects are thought to be important in other biological processes as well. First: research "quantum tunneling." Read a basic (Wikipedia-level, e.g.) description to obtain an intuitive grasp of what quantum-mechanical tunneling Then: research "quantum effects in biology." Any article on this topic is likely to include some discussion of electron transfer in photosystems; find a source that includes some discussion of other processes as well. Find information on at least one biological setting/process besides photosystems where quantum effects are important. Summarize your new appreciations of quantum effects in biology-including your understanding of what tunneling is and why it is important, in a couple of paragraphs.

Answer 1

Answer:

Tunneling in quantum mechanics is where a subatomic particle passes through a potential barrier. According to classical mechanics a particle with insufficient energy cant move through a barrier. Eg: nuclear fusion in stars. Main applications in tunnel diode and quantum computing.Tunneling is explained in terms of Heisenberg's uncertainty principle. The quantum object here is known particle or wave.

Mitochondria translate between quantum and macroscopic worls and utilize quantum tunneling mechanisms of electrons to reduce activation energy barriers to electron flow. Electron tunneling is well demonstrated in Complex I of electron transport chain. Neuro degenerative disease and age related oxidative damage to electron tunneling results in decreased energy storage. Electron tunneling is the pivotal role of mitochondria. DNA mutation by quantum tunneling is another role or a negative aspect. This is called Lowdin mutation model. This is by exposure to ultraviolet rays. The reception of olfaction has got quatum tunneling mechanisms. Enzymes use quantum tunneling to transfer electrons to long distances.