Forensic Science History and Careers

The process of using scientific methods to gather and examine evidence for legal purposes, typically in relation to crimes.

A person responsible for collecting, analyzing, and presenting evidence in legal cases, usually working with law enforcement.

The process of understanding and interpreting sensory information received by the brain, often involving filling in missing information.

Evidence that can be measured and quantified, such as fingerprints or DNA.

Evidence that describes qualities or characteristics, such as color or shape.

A form of reasoning that starts with general principles and applies them to specific cases.

The ability to observe, analyze, and draw conclusions from information.

The ability to communicate effectively, clearly, and persuasively.

The study of how misinformation can lead to false memories, highlighting the fallibility of human memory.

The practice of using scientific methods to test a hypothesis, involving a claim, supporting evidence, and a reasoning model.

Eyewitness accounts of a crime can differ significantly due to memory fading and the brain filling in missing details.

Facts are statements or information that can be verified, while opinions are personal beliefs based on judgement.

Forensic investigators analyze eyewitness accounts and other evidence to establish a logical sequence of events.

We often miss important details because we naturally filter out information we assume to be unimportant.

The scientific method is used to reduce bias in observations by focusing on objective data and avoiding personal interpretations.

The Locard Principle states that when two objects come into contact, they exchange trace evidence.

Trace evidence examiners analyze tiny pieces of physical evidence like hairs or fibers to connect people, places, and objects.

Luminol reacts with blood to create a blue glow, revealing hidden bloodstains at crime scenes.

Forensic photographers document crime scenes with specialized techniques, including UV and infrared light.

DNA fingerprinting, developed in 1984 by Sir Alec Jeffreys, revolutionized forensic science by providing unique genetic profiles.

A forensic scientist who examines fingerprints left at crime scenes, analyzes them using powders and chemicals, and compares them to databases.

A scientist who analyzes biological evidence, such as blood and DNA, for criminal investigations.

A forensic scientist who analyzes body fluids and tissues to determine the presence of drugs and poisons.

An expert who examines handwriting and typefaces on questioned documents to determine their authenticity and origin.

A forensic scientist who examines firearms and discharged ammunition.

A forensic scientist who studies insects to estimate the time of death.

A forensic specialist who collects and analyzes data from computers and digital devices.

Forensic experts who analyze failures, accidents, fires, and explosions. They aim to determine the cause and contributing factors.

A forensic scientist who analyzes dental evidence for identification and comparison.

A medical professional who performs autopsies for legal purposes, determines the cause and time of death, and works closely with medical examiners.

The study of the social and human aspects of crime, including its causes, patterns, and consequences.

A systematic approach to investigation, relying on physical evidence, interpretation, and hypothesis testing to reach conclusions.

A cognitive process where preconceived notions or external information can influence interpretation of evidence.

A method to limit bias in decision-making by revealing information piece by piece, preventing early conclusions.

A process where a laboratory is evaluated to ensure it meets specific professional standards.

The ability to repeat scientific results by different researchers, demonstrating reliability.

A system that aims to settle disputes, where evidence is presented to a decision-maker.

A system that aims to understand the natural world through experiments and observations.

The person responsible for making a decision in a legal case based on the presented evidence.