CHEM 3130 - Modern Forensic Science

(3 Lecture Hours 0 Lab Hours 3 Credit Hours)

Case-oriented approach will be used to explore selected topics of forensic science. These include: (1) the scientific and technological foundation for the examination of evidence; (2) the scope of expert qualifications and testimony, the legal status of scientific techniques, and the admissibility of the results in evidence; (3) the analysis of trace evidence including glass, soil, hair, fibers, gunpowder residues and bullet fragments; (4) forensic toxicology and pharmacology are applied to the analysis of alcohol, poisons, and drugs; and (5) the characterization of blood and other body fluids. The cases which stimulate the exploration of these areas include: the O.J. Simpson case, the John Kennedy assassination, the Jeffery Lindberg baby kidnapping, and the Tylenol poisonings. Not applicable as a Chemistry elective for students majoring or minoring in chemistry.