Study Guide

Objective

Forensic Chemistry is a dynamic and interdisciplinary course that delves into the fascinating world of chemistry and its application in solving criminal cases. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on laboratory experience, students will gain an understanding of how chemistry contributes to the collection, analysis, and interpretation of physical evidence in criminal cases.
1. Evidence Collection: Learn the techniques and procedures for collecting, preserving, and documenting forensic chemical evidence, ensuring the integrity of samples.
2. Analytical Techniques: Explore a wide range of chemical analysis techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, mass spectrometry, and microanalytical methods commonly used in forensic investigations.
3. Substance Identification: Develop the skills to identify and classify various substances, including drugs, explosives, toxic compounds, and unknown compounds, using chemical analysis.
4. Toxicology: Investigate the field of forensic toxicology, including the analysis of biological samples for the presence of drugs, alcohol, and other toxic substances.
5. Arson Investigation: Delve into the chemistry of arson investigation and the analysis of fire debris to determine the cause of fires.
6. Real-World Applications: Analyze case studies and real-life examples to apply chemical knowledge to practical forensic scenarios, demonstrating the relevance of chemistry in criminal investigations.
7. Hands-On Laboratory Experience: Gain practical experience in a laboratory setting, conducting chemical analyses, interpreting data, and documenting findings.

Content

Overview of analytical chemistry in the context of forensic science.
Spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques in forensic analysis
applications in forensic chemistry e.g. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, GC-MS and HPLC-MS data analysis and interpretation.
Crime scene and trace evidence analysis: e.g. analysis of fibers, paints, and plastics.
Microscopy techniques: light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Drug analysis: analysis of drugs of abuse and controlled substances.
Toxicological analysis of blood, urine, or other biological fluids

Advanced topics and emerging technologies, e.g. environmental forensics.

Prerequisites

Analytical Separation Methods
Spectrometry
Organic Chemistry
Gene Technology and Basics in Bioinformatics

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

The student encounters some challenges in several areas of the course, including:

Grasping the fundamentals of evidence collection techniques and procedures.
Acquiring a basic understanding and proficiently utilizing analytical techniques.
Accurately identifying and classifying substances through chemical analysis.
Understanding the chemistry of arson investigation and consistently achieving accurate analyses of fire debris. Gaining knowledge in arson investigation and analysis of fire debris.
Applying chemical knowledge in practical forensic scenarios.
Gaining hands-on experience in the laboratory, and improving interpretation and documentation of findings.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

The student exhibits a reasonably good understanding in several aspects of the course, including:

Understanding evidence collection techniques-
Demonstrating a moderate understanding of analytical techniques, occasionally making errors.
Adequately identifying and classifying substances.
Having a basic understanding of forensic toxicology.
Understanding the fundamentals of arson investigation and fire debris analysis.
Applying chemical knowledge reasonably well in real-world situations.
Gaining practical experience in the laboratory, with some challenges in interpreting and documenting findings on occasion.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student excels in various aspects of the course, including mastering evidence collection techniques with precision, effectively applying analytical techniques in forensic investigations, and accurately identifying and classifying substances through chemical analysis. They also excel in forensic toxicology investigations, comprehending arson investigation chemistry, and applying chemical knowledge in practical forensic scenarios. Moreover, they gain practical laboratory experience, conducting chemical analyses, interpreting data accurately, and documenting findings effectively.

The student's excellent performance showcases a deep understanding of the subject matter and a high level of competence across multiple areas of the course, particularly in practical laboratory experience, chemical analysis, data interpretation, and documentation.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

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