Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following is a preliminary/presumptive test used in forensic toxicology?
Which of the following is a preliminary/presumptive test used in forensic toxicology?
- Liquid-liquid extraction
- Solid phase extraction
- Immunoassay (correct)
- Thin Layer Chromatography
Which method is considered the 'gold standard' in drug confirmation?
Which method is considered the 'gold standard' in drug confirmation?
- Thin Layer Chromatography
- Gas Chromatography
- High Performance Liquid Chromatography
- Mass Spectrometry (correct)
What can cause drug degradation?
What can cause drug degradation?
- Solid phase extraction
- Intake into the lab
- Liquid-liquid extraction
- Exposure to heat or light (correct)
What is the purpose of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is the purpose of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is the main principle behind immunoassay in forensic toxicology?
What is the main principle behind immunoassay in forensic toxicology?
What type of spectroscopy is commonly used in forensic toxicology for drug analysis?
What type of spectroscopy is commonly used in forensic toxicology for drug analysis?
Discuss the process of processing an unknown sample in forensic toxicology, from intake into the lab through the final confirmatory analysis.
Discuss the process of processing an unknown sample in forensic toxicology, from intake into the lab through the final confirmatory analysis.
What can cause drug degradation? Why is this important?
What can cause drug degradation? Why is this important?
What are preliminary/presumptive tests in toxicology? Provide different examples and explain how they work in detail.
What are preliminary/presumptive tests in toxicology? Provide different examples and explain how they work in detail.
Explain the principles and working mechanisms of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology.
Explain the principles and working mechanisms of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology.
Describe the process and working principle of solid phase extraction (SPE) in forensic toxicology.
Describe the process and working principle of solid phase extraction (SPE) in forensic toxicology.
Explain the principles and working mechanism of gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS) in forensic toxicology. Why is GC/MS considered the 'gold standard' in drug confirmation?
Explain the principles and working mechanism of gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS) in forensic toxicology. Why is GC/MS considered the 'gold standard' in drug confirmation?
Which of the following factors can catalyze drug degradation reactions?
Which of the following factors can catalyze drug degradation reactions?
Which type of drug is particularly susceptible to hydrolysis?
Which type of drug is particularly susceptible to hydrolysis?
What is the temperature dependence of reaction rates revealed through?
What is the temperature dependence of reaction rates revealed through?
Which factor should be considered when making measurements during the examination of drug samples?
Which factor should be considered when making measurements during the examination of drug samples?
What is the recommended storage temperature for biological specimens prior to testing?
What is the recommended storage temperature for biological specimens prior to testing?
What is one of the biggest concerns in a forensic laboratory regarding sample analysis?
What is one of the biggest concerns in a forensic laboratory regarding sample analysis?
Which of the following factors can affect the stability of a drug?
Which of the following factors can affect the stability of a drug?
What can be added to pharmaceutical preparations to prevent degradation of drugs?
What can be added to pharmaceutical preparations to prevent degradation of drugs?
Which type of sample container composition should be considered to prevent interference with drug detection?
Which type of sample container composition should be considered to prevent interference with drug detection?
Which of the following is NOT a factor that should be recorded when acquiring seized drug samples for testing?
Which of the following is NOT a factor that should be recorded when acquiring seized drug samples for testing?
What is the purpose of assessing all associated specimen documents when samples are submitted to a forensic laboratory for testing?
What is the purpose of assessing all associated specimen documents when samples are submitted to a forensic laboratory for testing?
What is the responsibility of the forensic laboratory in relation to the storage of submitted samples?
What is the responsibility of the forensic laboratory in relation to the storage of submitted samples?
According to the text, what is the purpose of stability testing in the context of drug substances or drug products?
According to the text, what is the purpose of stability testing in the context of drug substances or drug products?
According to the text, what are three factors that can influence the stability of a drug?
According to the text, what are three factors that can influence the stability of a drug?
According to the text, what are three forms of drug contamination that can occur in a laboratory environment?
According to the text, what are three forms of drug contamination that can occur in a laboratory environment?
Which of the following is a disadvantage of color tests for drug identification?
Which of the following is a disadvantage of color tests for drug identification?
Which of the following is an advantage of color tests for drug identification?
Which of the following is an advantage of color tests for drug identification?
What is the name of the color test used to screen for opiate drugs?
What is the name of the color test used to screen for opiate drugs?
What color change would you expect with Ehrlich's reagent in the presence of LSD?
What color change would you expect with Ehrlich's reagent in the presence of LSD?
Why are color tests considered to be preliminary tests and not confirmatory drug identification tests?
Why are color tests considered to be preliminary tests and not confirmatory drug identification tests?
Which of the following is NOT a type of trichome or hair that can be microscopically observed on the cannabis plant?
Which of the following is NOT a type of trichome or hair that can be microscopically observed on the cannabis plant?
Which cellular structures of cannabis are specific to the flowering and fruiting tops of the plants?
Which cellular structures of cannabis are specific to the flowering and fruiting tops of the plants?
Which cellular features of cannabis do not contain cannabis oil?
Which cellular features of cannabis do not contain cannabis oil?
What is the purpose of the Duquenois-Levine color test in analyzing suspected cannabis samples?
What is the purpose of the Duquenois-Levine color test in analyzing suspected cannabis samples?
What are the three types of hairs or trichomes that can be microscopically observed on the cannabis plant?
What are the three types of hairs or trichomes that can be microscopically observed on the cannabis plant?
What are the two chemical substances involved in microcrystal tests?
What are the two chemical substances involved in microcrystal tests?
Which type of microcrystal test involves a color change or precipitate formation due to some change in the reagent caused by the test substance?
Which type of microcrystal test involves a color change or precipitate formation due to some change in the reagent caused by the test substance?
What is the purpose of microcrystal tests in forensic drug identification?
What is the purpose of microcrystal tests in forensic drug identification?
What is the most common type of reagent used in microcrystal tests?
What is the most common type of reagent used in microcrystal tests?
What is the range of quantities needed for the identification of alkaloids using microcrystal tests?
What is the range of quantities needed for the identification of alkaloids using microcrystal tests?
What can cause supersaturation in microcrystal tests?
What can cause supersaturation in microcrystal tests?
What is the advantage of using microcrystal tests for preliminary drug identification in forensic cases?
What is the advantage of using microcrystal tests for preliminary drug identification in forensic cases?
Which of the following is an advantage of microcrystal tests in forensic drug identification?
Which of the following is an advantage of microcrystal tests in forensic drug identification?
What is the main difference between direct and indirect microcrystal testing?
What is the main difference between direct and indirect microcrystal testing?
Which of the following is a disadvantage of microcrystal tests?
Which of the following is a disadvantage of microcrystal tests?
Which of the following crystalloptic parameters can be used to identify or distinguish drug microcrystals?
Which of the following crystalloptic parameters can be used to identify or distinguish drug microcrystals?
What is the purpose of polarized light microscopy in microcrystal testing?
What is the purpose of polarized light microscopy in microcrystal testing?
What can cause distortions in the crystal habit or form of microcrystals?
What can cause distortions in the crystal habit or form of microcrystals?
Which of the following is NOT a requirement for microcrystal testing?
Which of the following is NOT a requirement for microcrystal testing?
What is one disadvantage of microcrystal tests in forensic drug identification?
What is one disadvantage of microcrystal tests in forensic drug identification?
Which of the following is true about the extraction of a drug or metabolite from interfering compounds?
Which of the following is true about the extraction of a drug or metabolite from interfering compounds?
According to the Bronsted-Lowry Theory of Acids and Bases, which of the following is true?
According to the Bronsted-Lowry Theory of Acids and Bases, which of the following is true?
How are the relative strengths of acids and bases measured?
How are the relative strengths of acids and bases measured?
Which of the following is true about the strength of an acid in different solvents?
Which of the following is true about the strength of an acid in different solvents?
Which of the following is an example of a weak acid?
Which of the following is an example of a weak acid?
According to the Bronsted-Lowry theory, which of the following statements is true?
According to the Bronsted-Lowry theory, which of the following statements is true?
What is the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation for acids?
What is the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation for acids?
What is the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation for bases?
What is the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation for bases?
When extracting an acidic drug with a pKa of 3, what should the pH be to extract the unionized form of the drug, primarily?
When extracting an acidic drug with a pKa of 3, what should the pH be to extract the unionized form of the drug, primarily?
Which of the following drugs is an example of an acidic drug?
Which of the following drugs is an example of an acidic drug?
Which of the following is true about the strength of an acid?
Which of the following is true about the strength of an acid?
Which of the following is true about the ionization process of acids and bases in aqueous solution?
Which of the following is true about the ionization process of acids and bases in aqueous solution?
Which of the following is true about the relationship between the acidity of an acid and the basicity of the base?
Which of the following is true about the relationship between the acidity of an acid and the basicity of the base?
Which of the following is true about protolytic reactions?
Which of the following is true about protolytic reactions?
Which of the following is true about the ionization constant, Ka?
Which of the following is true about the ionization constant, Ka?
Which of the following is an advantage of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
Which of the following is an advantage of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is one disadvantage of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is one disadvantage of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
Which of the following is true about amphoteric compounds?
Which of the following is true about amphoteric compounds?
What is the optimal pH for extracting morphine in its unionized form?
What is the optimal pH for extracting morphine in its unionized form?
What is one advantage of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is one advantage of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is one disadvantage of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is one disadvantage of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is one advantage of solid phase extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is one advantage of solid phase extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is one disadvantage of solid phase extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is one disadvantage of solid phase extraction in forensic toxicology?
Which of the following factors affects the partition coefficient (K) in liquid-liquid extraction?
Which of the following factors affects the partition coefficient (K) in liquid-liquid extraction?
What determines the degree to which a drug partitions between an aqueous and an organic medium?
What determines the degree to which a drug partitions between an aqueous and an organic medium?
Which type of compound is more likely to partition into the aqueous phase in liquid-liquid extraction?
Which type of compound is more likely to partition into the aqueous phase in liquid-liquid extraction?
What is the purpose of making a drug as non-polar as possible during an extraction from a biological matrix?
What is the purpose of making a drug as non-polar as possible during an extraction from a biological matrix?
What is the equation to calculate the partition coefficient (K) in liquid-liquid extraction?
What is the equation to calculate the partition coefficient (K) in liquid-liquid extraction?
What is the main purpose of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
What is the main purpose of liquid-liquid extraction in forensic toxicology?
What does the degree of ionization of a compound depend on?
What does the degree of ionization of a compound depend on?
What are the advantages of liquid-liquid extraction?
What are the advantages of liquid-liquid extraction?
What are the disadvantages of liquid-liquid extraction?
What are the disadvantages of liquid-liquid extraction?
What is the optimal pH for extracting morphine?
What is the optimal pH for extracting morphine?
What are amphoteric compounds?
What are amphoteric compounds?
How are amphoteric compounds best extracted?
How are amphoteric compounds best extracted?
Which of the following is the purpose of sample pretreatment in solid phase extraction?
Which of the following is the purpose of sample pretreatment in solid phase extraction?
What are the two phases involved in solid phase extraction?
What are the two phases involved in solid phase extraction?
What is the purpose of pH adjustments in solid phase extraction?
What is the purpose of pH adjustments in solid phase extraction?
What is the role of the solid phase cartridges in solid phase extraction?
What is the role of the solid phase cartridges in solid phase extraction?
What was the initial extraction media used in early solid phase extractions?
What was the initial extraction media used in early solid phase extractions?
Which of the following solvents is particularly effective for conditioning the sorbent in solid phase extraction?
Which of the following solvents is particularly effective for conditioning the sorbent in solid phase extraction?
What is the purpose of passing a buffer through the extraction cartridge in solid phase extraction?
What is the purpose of passing a buffer through the extraction cartridge in solid phase extraction?
Which of the following is NOT a step in the solid phase extraction procedure?
Which of the following is NOT a step in the solid phase extraction procedure?
What is the goal of washing the extraction cartridge with a suitable solvent in solid phase extraction?
What is the goal of washing the extraction cartridge with a suitable solvent in solid phase extraction?
What is the optimal solvent strength for eluting the analyte of interest in solid phase extraction?
What is the optimal solvent strength for eluting the analyte of interest in solid phase extraction?
Which step in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process ensures that acidic drugs become organic solvent soluble?
Which step in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process ensures that acidic drugs become organic solvent soluble?
What is the purpose of drying the sorbent bed in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process?
What is the purpose of drying the sorbent bed in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process?
What is the purpose of adding 4 ml of 2% ammoniated ethyl acetate (pH = 12) to the sorbent bed in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process?
What is the purpose of adding 4 ml of 2% ammoniated ethyl acetate (pH = 12) to the sorbent bed in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process?
What is the purpose of adding 4 ml of 1:1 acetone/chloroform to the sorbent bed in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process?
What is the purpose of adding 4 ml of 1:1 acetone/chloroform to the sorbent bed in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process?
Which step in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process ensures that basic drugs become positively charged and will be retained by the cation exchange portion of the stationary phase?
Which step in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process ensures that basic drugs become positively charged and will be retained by the cation exchange portion of the stationary phase?
What is the purpose of drying the sorbent bed in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process?
What is the purpose of drying the sorbent bed in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process?
What is the purpose of adding 4 ml of 2% ammoniated ethyl acetate (pH = 12) to the sorbent bed in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process?
What is the purpose of adding 4 ml of 2% ammoniated ethyl acetate (pH = 12) to the sorbent bed in the Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) process?
What is the optimal pH for extracting morphine?
What is the optimal pH for extracting morphine?
Which of the following is an advantage of solid phase microextractions (SPME) compared to liquid-liquid extractions (LLE)?
Which of the following is an advantage of solid phase microextractions (SPME) compared to liquid-liquid extractions (LLE)?
Which of the following is a disadvantage of microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS)?
Which of the following is a disadvantage of microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS)?
What is the purpose of liquid phase microextractions (LPME) in drug extraction?
What is the purpose of liquid phase microextractions (LPME) in drug extraction?
What effect could protein binding have on drug extraction and what steps can be taken to overcome this?
What effect could protein binding have on drug extraction and what steps can be taken to overcome this?
Why is it important to dry a solid phase cartridge prior to eluting drugs of interest with organic solvent?
Why is it important to dry a solid phase cartridge prior to eluting drugs of interest with organic solvent?
Which of the following is NOT a factor that affects the reproducibility of a drug's Rf value in TLC?
Which of the following is NOT a factor that affects the reproducibility of a drug's Rf value in TLC?
Which of the following is a property of cellulose as a stationary phase in TLC?
Which of the following is a property of cellulose as a stationary phase in TLC?
Which of the following is NOT a locating agent used in TLC?
Which of the following is NOT a locating agent used in TLC?
What is the definition of Rf value in TLC?
What is the definition of Rf value in TLC?
Which of the following statements about Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) is correct?
Which of the following statements about Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) is correct?
What is the primary use of Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)?
What is the primary use of Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)?
What are some reasons for the popularity of Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)?
What are some reasons for the popularity of Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)?
What is the purpose of the Rf value in TLC?
What is the purpose of the Rf value in TLC?
What is the advantage of using a reversed-phase system in TLC?
What is the advantage of using a reversed-phase system in TLC?
What are the advantages of TLC compared to gas chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography?
What are the advantages of TLC compared to gas chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography?
What are the advantages of Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)?
What are the advantages of Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)?
Describe the properties of the following stationary phases used in TLC: Cellulose, Silica gel, Ion exchange resins.
Describe the properties of the following stationary phases used in TLC: Cellulose, Silica gel, Ion exchange resins.
Name three locating agents used in TLC and their properties.
Name three locating agents used in TLC and their properties.
Which type of antibodies are produced through the immunization process?
Which type of antibodies are produced through the immunization process?
What are haptens?
What are haptens?
Which of the following is NOT a commonly used carrier protein in antibody production?
Which of the following is NOT a commonly used carrier protein in antibody production?
Which type of antibodies have greater affinity for an antigen due to their multisite linkage?
Which type of antibodies have greater affinity for an antigen due to their multisite linkage?
What is the basis for immunoassay testing?
What is the basis for immunoassay testing?
Which type of antibodies can attach to several epitopes on an antigen?
Which type of antibodies can attach to several epitopes on an antigen?
What is the purpose of a label in an immunoassay?
What is the purpose of a label in an immunoassay?
Which type of immunoassay involves competition between labeled antigens and the sample's antigens for antibodies?
Which type of immunoassay involves competition between labeled antigens and the sample's antigens for antibodies?
What is the difference between a heterogeneous and homogenous immunoassay?
What is the difference between a heterogeneous and homogenous immunoassay?
Which immunoassay technique is used more routinely in forensic toxicology laboratories?
Which immunoassay technique is used more routinely in forensic toxicology laboratories?
Which type of immunoassay does not require a substrate for detection?
Which type of immunoassay does not require a substrate for detection?
What is the purpose of a stop reagent in ELISA?
What is the purpose of a stop reagent in ELISA?
What is the main advantage of EMIT compared to RIA and ELISA?
What is the main advantage of EMIT compared to RIA and ELISA?
What is the purpose of the wash step in ELISA?
What is the purpose of the wash step in ELISA?
Which immunoassay technique was developed first?
Which immunoassay technique was developed first?
Which of the following labels is commonly used in Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for antigen detection?
Which of the following labels is commonly used in Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for antigen detection?
What is the purpose of a substrate in Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)?
What is the purpose of a substrate in Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)?
What type of immunoassay is Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)?
What type of immunoassay is Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)?
Which body fluids can be analyzed using immunoassay techniques in forensic toxicology?
Which body fluids can be analyzed using immunoassay techniques in forensic toxicology?
What is the most commonly used immunoassay technique in forensic toxicology laboratories?
What is the most commonly used immunoassay technique in forensic toxicology laboratories?
Which of the following is a common strength of immunoassay techniques?
Which of the following is a common strength of immunoassay techniques?
Why is urine usually the matrix of choice for immunoassay?
Why is urine usually the matrix of choice for immunoassay?
What two parameters may be used to determine drug 'cutoff' levels?
What two parameters may be used to determine drug 'cutoff' levels?
Which immunoassay technique is more suitable for matrices other than urine?
Which immunoassay technique is more suitable for matrices other than urine?
Which immunoassay technique uses a label which increases sensitivity?
Which immunoassay technique uses a label which increases sensitivity?
Which of the following labels is used in Fluorescence Polarization Immunoassay (FPIA)?
Which of the following labels is used in Fluorescence Polarization Immunoassay (FPIA)?
Which of the following immunoassay techniques involves a precipitation process?
Which of the following immunoassay techniques involves a precipitation process?
What is the label used in Cloned Enzyme Donor Immunoassay (CEDIA)?
What is the label used in Cloned Enzyme Donor Immunoassay (CEDIA)?
Which of the following immunoassay techniques is based on the recombination of two inactive protein fragments?
Which of the following immunoassay techniques is based on the recombination of two inactive protein fragments?
What is the relationship between the concentration of drug and the instrumental response in Fluorescence Polarization Immunoassay (FPIA)?
What is the relationship between the concentration of drug and the instrumental response in Fluorescence Polarization Immunoassay (FPIA)?
According to Lambert's Law, what happens to the intensity of radiation transmitted through a homogeneously absorbing system as the path length increases?
According to Lambert's Law, what happens to the intensity of radiation transmitted through a homogeneously absorbing system as the path length increases?
According to Beer's Law, what happens to the transmitted intensity of radiation through a homogeneously absorbing system as the sample concentration increases?
According to Beer's Law, what happens to the transmitted intensity of radiation through a homogeneously absorbing system as the sample concentration increases?
What is the purpose of creating a calibration curve in drug analysis using Beer's Law?
What is the purpose of creating a calibration curve in drug analysis using Beer's Law?
In the equation for a line, y = mx + b, what does the slope (m) represent in the context of drug analysis using Beer's Law?
In the equation for a line, y = mx + b, what does the slope (m) represent in the context of drug analysis using Beer's Law?
What is the role of chromophores in energy absorption?
What is the role of chromophores in energy absorption?
Which type of lamps are commonly used as a source of visible and near infrared radiation in spectrophotometry?
Which type of lamps are commonly used as a source of visible and near infrared radiation in spectrophotometry?
What is the range of usable visible light in spectrophotometry?
What is the range of usable visible light in spectrophotometry?
What type of spectrophotometer configuration compensates for fluctuations in the output of the light source?
What type of spectrophotometer configuration compensates for fluctuations in the output of the light source?
Which region of the infrared spectrum provides useful information about pesticides and drugs?
Which region of the infrared spectrum provides useful information about pesticides and drugs?
What type of absorption occurs at frequencies that are multiples of the fundamental band frequency?
What type of absorption occurs at frequencies that are multiples of the fundamental band frequency?
What is the relationship between the spring constant of a bond and its wavenumber or vibrational frequency?
What is the relationship between the spring constant of a bond and its wavenumber or vibrational frequency?
Which of the following is an advantage of FTIR compared to dispersive spectrophotometers?
Which of the following is an advantage of FTIR compared to dispersive spectrophotometers?
What is the most common phase used when analyzing drugs with FTIR?
What is the most common phase used when analyzing drugs with FTIR?
What is the purpose of Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) in FTIR analysis?
What is the purpose of Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) in FTIR analysis?
Which of the following is NOT a major component of an IR spectrophotometer?
Which of the following is NOT a major component of an IR spectrophotometer?
What is the purpose of a monochromator or interferometer in an IR spectrophotometer?
What is the purpose of a monochromator or interferometer in an IR spectrophotometer?
What type of detector is used in a Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer?
What type of detector is used in a Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer?
Which of the following is NOT a component of instruments used for measuring UV or visible absorbance?
Which of the following is NOT a component of instruments used for measuring UV or visible absorbance?
In an aqueous solution, what effect does making the solution more alkaline have on the absorbance spectrum of phenolic compounds?
In an aqueous solution, what effect does making the solution more alkaline have on the absorbance spectrum of phenolic compounds?
What is the absorption maximum wavelength of barbiturates at pH 9.2?
What is the absorption maximum wavelength of barbiturates at pH 9.2?
What is the basis of the resultant spectrum in Raman spectroscopy?
What is the basis of the resultant spectrum in Raman spectroscopy?
What is a disadvantage of using Raman spectroscopy for analyzing fluorescent substances?
What is a disadvantage of using Raman spectroscopy for analyzing fluorescent substances?
What is the advantage of using Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)?
What is the advantage of using Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)?
What is the benefit of using microscopic methods in Raman spectroscopy?
What is the benefit of using microscopic methods in Raman spectroscopy?
Why is Raman spectroscopy a preferred technique versus traditional color tests for seized drugs?
Why is Raman spectroscopy a preferred technique versus traditional color tests for seized drugs?
Which technique can be used for onsite preliminary drug identification of unknown seized drugs?
Which technique can be used for onsite preliminary drug identification of unknown seized drugs?
What can ATR-FTIR instruments be combined with for enhanced spatial resolution?
What can ATR-FTIR instruments be combined with for enhanced spatial resolution?
What are ATR-FTIR instruments being used for in response to increasing fentanyl overdoses?
What are ATR-FTIR instruments being used for in response to increasing fentanyl overdoses?
What type of light source is generally used in Raman Spectroscopy?
What type of light source is generally used in Raman Spectroscopy?
What is the change in energy state called when incident photons lose energy to molecular bond vibrations in Raman Spectroscopy?
What is the change in energy state called when incident photons lose energy to molecular bond vibrations in Raman Spectroscopy?
Which type of pump is commonly used in chromatography to ensure constant flow rate?
Which type of pump is commonly used in chromatography to ensure constant flow rate?
What is the purpose of a fixed loop in a manual injection system?
What is the purpose of a fixed loop in a manual injection system?
What are the main differences between gas chromatography (GC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)?
What are the main differences between gas chromatography (GC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)?
What is the primary material used to make HPLC columns?
What is the primary material used to make HPLC columns?
What is the purpose of the stationary phase in HPLC columns?
What is the purpose of the stationary phase in HPLC columns?
What are the main differences between HPLC columns and GC capillary columns?
What are the main differences between HPLC columns and GC capillary columns?
What are HPLC columns packed with?
What are HPLC columns packed with?
What determines the retention time of solutes in HPLC?
What determines the retention time of solutes in HPLC?
What is the main purpose of adsorption HPLC?
What is the main purpose of adsorption HPLC?
What are HPLC columns packed with in the case of packed gels?
What are HPLC columns packed with in the case of packed gels?
Which of the following is the most commonly used detector for HPLC?
Which of the following is the most commonly used detector for HPLC?
What is the difference between HPLC and UHPLC?
What is the difference between HPLC and UHPLC?
What is the purpose of adding an ion pair agent to an HPLC mobile phase?
What is the purpose of adding an ion pair agent to an HPLC mobile phase?
What is the difference between adsorption phase and partition phase chromatography?
What is the difference between adsorption phase and partition phase chromatography?
What are theoretical plates in chromatography?
What are theoretical plates in chromatography?
Which of the following is an advantage of fluorescence detectors in chromatography?
Which of the following is an advantage of fluorescence detectors in chromatography?
What is the main disadvantage of electrochemical detectors in chromatography?
What is the main disadvantage of electrochemical detectors in chromatography?
Which type of compounds can be detected by fluorescence detectors in chromatography?
Which type of compounds can be detected by fluorescence detectors in chromatography?
What is the main advantage of electrochemical detectors in chromatography?
What is the main advantage of electrochemical detectors in chromatography?
Which of the following is a disadvantage of fluorescence detectors in chromatography?
Which of the following is a disadvantage of fluorescence detectors in chromatography?
Which of the following is true about the operation of an electron multiplier in a mass spectrometer?
Which of the following is true about the operation of an electron multiplier in a mass spectrometer?
What is the unit of measurement for mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) in a mass spectrum?
What is the unit of measurement for mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) in a mass spectrum?
What is the purpose of Total Ion Current (TIC) in mass spectrometry?
What is the purpose of Total Ion Current (TIC) in mass spectrometry?
What is the purpose of Single Ion Monitoring (SIM) in mass spectrometry?
What is the purpose of Single Ion Monitoring (SIM) in mass spectrometry?
What is the molecular ion in a mass spectrum?
What is the molecular ion in a mass spectrum?
What is the base peak in a mass spectrum?
What is the base peak in a mass spectrum?
Where does ionization take place when using Electrospray Ionization (ESI)?
Where does ionization take place when using Electrospray Ionization (ESI)?
Why would a laboratory choose to use a LCMSMS versus a GCMS?
Why would a laboratory choose to use a LCMSMS versus a GCMS?
What is the main difference in the operation of a quadrupole mass spectrometer compared with an ion trap?
What is the main difference in the operation of a quadrupole mass spectrometer compared with an ion trap?
What is the purpose of the electron multiplier in a mass spectrometer?
What is the purpose of the electron multiplier in a mass spectrometer?
Which term describes a pattern where the variance of measured residuals is homogenous or uniform across the calibration curve?
Which term describes a pattern where the variance of measured residuals is homogenous or uniform across the calibration curve?
What type of model is appropriate when the residual plot reveals a U-shape?
What type of model is appropriate when the residual plot reveals a U-shape?
When is a weighted regression model needed?
When is a weighted regression model needed?
What does a funnel-shaped residual plot indicate?
What does a funnel-shaped residual plot indicate?
What is the purpose of a weighted regression model?
What is the purpose of a weighted regression model?
What can be done to determine the concentration of an analyte using a nonlinear model?
What can be done to determine the concentration of an analyte using a nonlinear model?
What is the main difference between a linear model and a nonlinear model?
What is the main difference between a linear model and a nonlinear model?
What is the purpose of a quadratic least square regression model?
What is the purpose of a quadratic least square regression model?
What is the role of weighting in regression models?
What is the role of weighting in regression models?
What should a laboratory assess in determining the most appropriate model to use?
What should a laboratory assess in determining the most appropriate model to use?
Which of the following best describes measurement uncertainty?
Which of the following best describes measurement uncertainty?
What is the purpose of determining uncertainty when validating a method?
What is the purpose of determining uncertainty when validating a method?
How is uncertainty initially determined when validating a method?
How is uncertainty initially determined when validating a method?
What is the expanded uncertainty?
What is the expanded uncertainty?
When should the expanded uncertainty be recalculated?
When should the expanded uncertainty be recalculated?
Why is it necessary to recalculate the expanded uncertainty?
Why is it necessary to recalculate the expanded uncertainty?
What is the purpose of using a coverage factor and confidence level when reporting the expanded uncertainty?
What is the purpose of using a coverage factor and confidence level when reporting the expanded uncertainty?
What is the advantage of recalculation using data gathered from routine analyses?
What is the advantage of recalculation using data gathered from routine analyses?
What is the primary purpose of determining uncertainty in laboratory measurements?
What is the primary purpose of determining uncertainty in laboratory measurements?
What is the role of standard deviations in determining uncertainty?
What is the role of standard deviations in determining uncertainty?
Which parties may need access to validation information?
Which parties may need access to validation information?
What measures should be taken during validation to ensure a quality process?
What measures should be taken during validation to ensure a quality process?
When should the uncertainty of measurement be determined?
When should the uncertainty of measurement be determined?
What should be done if changes need to be made to the method?
What should be done if changes need to be made to the method?
What should be done when deviations occur during continuous monitoring of a validated method?
What should be done when deviations occur during continuous monitoring of a validated method?
What is the general approach to forensic analysis for a seized drug sample?
What is the general approach to forensic analysis for a seized drug sample?
What is the general approach to forensic analysis for a biological specimen?
What is the general approach to forensic analysis for a biological specimen?
What are the main steps in the forensic analysis of a seized drug sample?
What are the main steps in the forensic analysis of a seized drug sample?
What are two techniques that can be used for confirmatory forensic drug analysis?
What are two techniques that can be used for confirmatory forensic drug analysis?
What is the purpose of the TLC technique in drug identification?
What is the purpose of the TLC technique in drug identification?
What is the advantage of using mass spectrometry for structural identification?
What is the advantage of using mass spectrometry for structural identification?
Which of the following techniques is primarily used to distinguish isomers such as dextromethorphan and levomethorphan?
Which of the following techniques is primarily used to distinguish isomers such as dextromethorphan and levomethorphan?
What is the purpose of the mobile phase in Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)?
What is the purpose of the mobile phase in Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)?
Which technique is considered the gold standard for structural identification and confirmation of drugs?
Which technique is considered the gold standard for structural identification and confirmation of drugs?
What is the purpose of Infrared Spectroscopy (IR) in forensic drug analysis?
What is the purpose of Infrared Spectroscopy (IR) in forensic drug analysis?
What is the purpose of the stationary phase in Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)?
What is the purpose of the stationary phase in Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)?
Which of the following is a common method used to prepare a sample for LCMSMS analysis?
Which of the following is a common method used to prepare a sample for LCMSMS analysis?
In a forensic chemistry lab, how is a sample typically prepared for analysis using gas chromatography and/or mass spectrometry?
In a forensic chemistry lab, how is a sample typically prepared for analysis using gas chromatography and/or mass spectrometry?
What is added to a sample prior to extraction or analysis in order to ensure accurate quantitation?
What is added to a sample prior to extraction or analysis in order to ensure accurate quantitation?
What information is reported when cocaine and its major metabolites are found in a sample?
What information is reported when cocaine and its major metabolites are found in a sample?
What is the purpose of reconstituting the extract with the appropriate diluent in LCMSMS preparation?
What is the purpose of reconstituting the extract with the appropriate diluent in LCMSMS preparation?
What is the purpose of LCMSMS preparation?
What is the purpose of LCMSMS preparation?
What is the role of an internal standard in forensic chemistry analysis?
What is the role of an internal standard in forensic chemistry analysis?
What is the purpose of evaporating and reconstituting the subsequent supernatant in LCMSMS preparation?
What is the purpose of evaporating and reconstituting the subsequent supernatant in LCMSMS preparation?
Which of the following is NOT a requirement for maintaining the appropriate storage and security conditions in a forensic laboratory?
Which of the following is NOT a requirement for maintaining the appropriate storage and security conditions in a forensic laboratory?
What is a required part of a forensic scientist's courtroom testimony?
What is a required part of a forensic scientist's courtroom testimony?
Why is documentation important in forensic cases?
Why is documentation important in forensic cases?
What is gas chromatography and what is its purpose?
What is gas chromatography and what is its purpose?
What are the steps involved in thin layer chromatography?
What are the steps involved in thin layer chromatography?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of liquid-liquid extraction?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of liquid-liquid extraction?
Which of the following is the primary goal of forensic toxicology?
Which of the following is the primary goal of forensic toxicology?
What is the most commonly used specimen for drug analysis in forensic toxicology?
What is the most commonly used specimen for drug analysis in forensic toxicology?
What do blood drug concentrations represent?
What do blood drug concentrations represent?
Why is blood preferred over urine for analyzing the behavioral effects of drugs?
Why is blood preferred over urine for analyzing the behavioral effects of drugs?
What is the ultimate goal of a forensic toxicologist?
What is the ultimate goal of a forensic toxicologist?
Which body fluids are commonly analyzed in forensic toxicology?
Which body fluids are commonly analyzed in forensic toxicology?
What can the presence and amount of drugs in a person's body fluids help determine?
What can the presence and amount of drugs in a person's body fluids help determine?
What types of cases do forensic toxicology typically involve?
What types of cases do forensic toxicology typically involve?
Which of the following questions may a forensic toxicologist be asked to answer during an investigation?
Which of the following questions may a forensic toxicologist be asked to answer during an investigation?
What is the significance of drug and/or metabolite levels in a person's body fluids?
What is the significance of drug and/or metabolite levels in a person's body fluids?
Flashcards
Presumptive Tests
Presumptive Tests
Initial tests to check for the presence of drugs.
GC/MS
GC/MS
Considered the most reliable method for confirming the presence of drugs.
Drug Degradation
Drug Degradation
Breakdown of drugs due to factors like light, heat, or moisture.
Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Liquid-Liquid Extraction
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Immunoassays
Immunoassays
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Spectroscopy
Spectroscopy
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Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)
Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)
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GC/MS
GC/MS
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Sample Intake & Homogenization
Sample Intake & Homogenization
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Stability Testing
Stability Testing
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Controlled Sample Storage
Controlled Sample Storage
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Color Tests
Color Tests
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Microcrystal Tests
Microcrystal Tests
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Bronsted-Lowry Theory
Bronsted-Lowry Theory
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Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation
Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation
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Acidic Drug Extraction
Acidic Drug Extraction
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Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Liquid-Liquid Extraction
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Solid Phase Extraction
Solid Phase Extraction
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Partition Coefficient (K)
Partition Coefficient (K)
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Amphoteric Compounds
Amphoteric Compounds
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Chain of Custody
Chain of Custody
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Lab Contamination
Lab Contamination
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Preliminary Drug Test
Preliminary Drug Test
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Environmental Factors
Environmental Factors
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UV-Vis Spectroscopy
UV-Vis Spectroscopy
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Sample Preparation
Sample Preparation
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Presumptive Testing
Presumptive Testing
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Mass Spectrometry (MS)
Mass Spectrometry (MS)
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Sample Refrigeration
Sample Refrigeration
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On-Site Testing
On-Site Testing
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Study Notes
Forensic Toxicology Overview
- Preliminary/presumptive tests are initial screenings to detect the presence of drugs in samples.
- Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) is recognized as the 'gold standard' for drug confirmation.
- Drug degradation can be caused by environmental factors such as light, heat, moisture, and pH.
- Liquid-liquid extraction aids in isolating drugs from biological matrices by separating compounds based on solubility differences in immiscible solvents.
- Immunoassays utilize antibodies to detect specific drugs or their metabolites, based on specific binding interactions.
Instrumentation and Techniques
- Spectroscopy, particularly ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) and infrared (IR), is widely used in drug analysis within forensic toxicology.
- Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) separates compounds based on their interactions with a solid stationary phase and a liquid mobile phase.
- GC uses vaporized samples to separate compounds, while MS identifies and quantifies them by measuring mass-to-charge ratios.
Sample Processing
- The process begins with sample intake, followed by homogenization, extraction, and analysis of drug components.
- Stability testing determines how environmental factors affect drug integrity over time, which is crucial for accurate forensic results.
- Sample storage must be controlled, typically at low temperatures to preserve biological specimens ahead of testing.
Drug Identification and Testing Methods
- Color tests provide preliminary analyses, such as the Duquenois-Levine test for cannabis, but are not definitive confirmations.
- Microcrystal tests utilize the formation of distinct crystals for identification, relying on careful dinitro and polarizing light microscopy techniques.
Chemical Principles
- The Bronsted-Lowry theory defines acids as proton donors and bases as proton acceptors, influencing drug behavior in solutions.
- Henderson-Hasselbalch equations relate pH, pKa, and the concentrations of ionized and unionized forms of acids and bases.
- Acidic drugs require specific pH conditions for optimal extraction, with pH values typically below the pKa favoring the unionized species.
Techniques and Protocols
- Liquid-liquid extraction is advantageous for separating organic compounds but disadvantages include time consumption and solvent use.
- SPE offers effective sample cleanup and concentration, though it may require complex optimization depending on the analyte's properties.
- Factors such as temperature and pH influence the partition coefficient (K) during extraction processes, crucial for efficient drug isolation.
Other Considerations
- Amphoteric compounds can act as either acids or bases, affecting their extraction efficiency based on pH conditions.
- Proper documentation during sample collection ensures chain of custody, elemental characterization, and proper laboratory analysis.
- Environmental conditions in the lab can lead to contamination, impacting the reliability of test results.
Final Thoughts
- Overall quality in forensic toxicology hinges on accurate testing methods, meticulous sampling protocols, and a solid understanding of chemical principles governing drug behavior in various environments.
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Description
Test your knowledge on forensic toxicology drug analysis, drug degradation, preliminary/presumptive tests, and examination processes. Learn how to process unknown samples, identify causes of drug degradation, understand the importance of preliminary tests, and gain detailed insights into examination processes.