Fundamentals of Forensic Science offers the most complete look at the core topics any student of forensic science must learn. It represents the most realistic view of the field by including areas that, while central to criminal investigation, fall outside the typical definition of "criminalistics." These areas include pathology, entomology, anthropology, and other areas of scientific study unique to forensic textbooks.
Organized by the timeline of a real case, the text begins with an introduction and history of forensic science. It then covers the methods of analysis used in most forensic examinations, addressing the biological, chemical and physical elements relevant to the field, and concluding with an examination of how forensic science intersects with law.
Feature boxes throughout the text contain:
Resources listings on the World Wide Web ("On the Web")
Historical events in forensic science ("History")
Practical issues in laboratory analysis ("In the Lab")
Topics for further reading or interest ("In More Detail").
Each chapter ends with two types of questions to assist with chapter review and discussion: "Test Your Knowledge" questions target key terms and information from the chapters while the questions under "Consider This…" offer topics and issues that challenge student knowledge and understanding of the chapter contents.
A full online instructor’s manual and PowerPoint slides are provided to aid course development.
Contents
1. Introduction
2. Crime Scene Investigation
3. The Nature of Evidence
4. Microscopy
5. Spectroscopic Techniques
6. Separation Methods in Forensic Science
7. Pathology
8. Anthropology and Odontology
9. Entomology
10. Serology and Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
11. DNA Analysis
12. Forensic Hair Examinations
13. Illicit Drugs
14. Forensic Toxicology
15. Textile Fibers
16. Paint Analysis
17. Soil and Glass
18. Fires and Explosions
19. Friction Ridge Examination
20. Questioned Documents
21. Firearms and Tool marks
22. Impression Evidence
23. Legal Aspects of Forensic Science
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