Introduction to Forensic Science
Expert-defined terms from the Graduate Certificate in Forensic and National Security Studies course at LearnUNI. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Introduction to Forensic Science Glossary #
Introduction to Forensic Science Glossary
1. Forensic Science #
The application of scientific principles and techniques to solve crimes and legal issues. It involves the collection, preservation, analysis, and interpretation of evidence.
2. Evidence #
Any object or information that is used to establish facts in a legal investigation. This can include physical objects, documents, testimonies, and digital data.
3. Crime Scene #
The location where a crime has occurred. It is crucial for forensic scientists to properly document, collect, and analyze evidence at the crime scene.
4. Chain of Custody #
The chronological documentation of the possession, control, transfer, and analysis of physical evidence. It ensures that the evidence is admissible in court and has not been tampered with.
5. DNA Analysis #
The process of identifying an individual based on their unique genetic code. DNA analysis is a powerful tool in forensic science for linking suspects to crime scenes.
6. Fingerprint Analysis #
The comparison and identification of unique patterns in fingerprints left at a crime scene. Fingerprints are one of the most common types of evidence found in forensic investigations.
7. Ballistics #
The study of projectiles, such as bullets, and their behavior. Ballistic analysis is used to match bullets to specific firearms in forensic investigations.
8. Toxicology #
The study of the effects of chemicals and drugs on the body. Toxicology is used in forensic science to determine if drugs or poisons were involved in a crime.
9. Anthropology #
The study of human remains to determine the identity, age, sex, and cause of death. Forensic anthropologists are often called in to assist in identifying skeletal remains.
10. Entomology #
The study of insects and their life cycles. Forensic entomologists use insect evidence to estimate the time of death in a crime investigation.
11. Odontology #
The study of teeth and bite marks. Forensic odontologists can match bite marks to suspects or identify unknown individuals based on dental records.
12. Trace Evidence #
Small pieces of physical evidence, such as fibers, hair, or glass, that are transferred between people or objects. Trace evidence can be crucial in linking suspects to crime scenes.
13. Digital Forensics #
The recovery and analysis of information stored on electronic devices. Digital forensics is used to investigate cybercrimes and recover data from computers, phones, and other devices.
14. Serology #
The study of blood and other bodily fluids. Serology is used in forensic science to identify blood types, DNA, and other biological evidence.
15. Crime Reconstruction #
The process of piecing together the events of a crime based on physical evidence. Crime reconstruction helps investigators understand what happened and who was involved.
16. Expert Witness #
A professional who testifies in court based on their specialized knowledge or expertise. Forensic scientists often serve as expert witnesses to provide scientific testimony.
17. Ballistic Comparison #
The process of comparing bullets or cartridge cases found at a crime scene to those fired from a suspect's firearm. Ballistic comparison can link a suspect to a specific weapon.
18. Blood Spatter Analysis #
The study of blood patterns left at a crime scene. Blood spatter analysis can help investigators determine the direction, angle, and velocity of bloodshed.
19. Chain of Evidence #
The documentation of the custody and handling of physical evidence from the crime scene to the courtroom. Chain of evidence ensures the integrity of the evidence.
20. CODIS #
The Combined DNA Index System, a national DNA database used by law enforcement agencies to store and compare DNA profiles. CODIS helps solve crimes by linking DNA evidence to suspects.
21. Cold Case #
An unsolved crime that has gone without resolution for an extended period. Forensic scientists may revisit cold cases using new technology or evidence.
22. Contamination #
The introduction of foreign material into evidence, which can compromise its integrity. Proper handling and storage of evidence are essential to prevent contamination.
23. Crime Lab #
A facility where forensic scientists analyze evidence collected from crime scenes. Crime labs use specialized equipment and techniques to process evidence.
24. CSI Effect #
The phenomenon where popular media, such as TV shows, influence public perception of forensic science. The CSI effect can lead to unrealistic expectations of forensic evidence in court.
25. Daubert Standard #
The legal standard used in U.S. courts to determine the admissibility of scientific evidence. Expert testimony must meet the Daubert standard to be presented in court.
26. Digital Footprint #
The trail of data left behind by a person's online activity. Forensic investigators can analyze a digital footprint to track a suspect's movements and actions.
27. Expert Testimony #
The testimony provided by a qualified expert in a particular field, such as forensic science. Expert testimony helps educate the court on complex scientific evidence.
28. Forensic Pathology #
The branch of forensic science that focuses on determining the cause and manner of death. Forensic pathologists perform autopsies and analyze medical records.
29. Forensic Photography #
The documentation of crime scenes and evidence through photographs. Forensic photographers use specialized techniques to capture accurate and detailed images.
30. Forensic Psychology #
The application of psychological principles to legal issues and investigations. Forensic psychologists may assess suspects, provide expert testimony, or work with law enforcement.
31. Forensic Report #
A detailed document that summarizes the findings of a forensic investigation. Forensic reports are used to communicate the results of analysis to investigators, attorneys, and courts.
32. Hair Analysis #
The examination of hair samples to determine characteristics such as color, texture, and chemical composition. Hair analysis can provide valuable evidence in forensic investigations.
33. Luminol #
A chemical reagent used to detect traces of blood at crime scenes. Luminol reacts with the iron in hemoglobin, causing blood to luminesce in the dark.
34. Microscopy #
The use of microscopes to examine and analyze evidence at a microscopic level. Microscopy is essential in forensic science for identifying and comparing trace evidence.
35. Miranda Rights #
The legal rights that must be read to suspects before they are questioned by law enforcement. Miranda rights include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.
36. Mitochondrial DNA #
DNA found in the mitochondria of cells, which is passed down maternally. Mitochondrial DNA analysis is used in forensic science when nuclear DNA is degraded or unavailable.
37. Postmortem Interval #
The time that has elapsed since a person's death. Determining the postmortem interval is crucial in forensic investigations to establish a timeline of events.
38. Questioned Document Examination #
The analysis of documents to determine their authenticity, origin, or alterations. Questioned document examiners may analyze handwriting, ink, paper, and other features.
39. Rigor Mortis #
The stiffening of muscles that occurs after death. Rigor mortis can help forensic scientists estimate the time of death based on the degree of muscle stiffness.
40. SANE Nurse #
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, a registered nurse specially trained to provide medical care and forensic evidence collection for sexual assault survivors.
41. Soil Analysis #
The examination of soil samples found at a crime scene to link suspects or vehicles to specific locations. Soil analysis can provide valuable geographical information in forensic investigations.
42. Subpoena #
A legal document that requires a person to appear in court or produce evidence. Forensic scientists may receive subpoenas to testify in court or provide expert reports.
43. Toolmark Analysis #
The examination of toolmarks left on objects at a crime scene. Toolmark analysis can link tools or weapons to specific crimes or suspects based on unique patterns.
44. Toxicology Report #
A document that summarizes the results of toxicological analysis on biological samples. Toxicology reports may identify drugs, poisons, or other substances in the body.
45. Triangulation #
The process of using multiple sources of evidence to corroborate findings in a forensic investigation. Triangulation helps ensure the accuracy and reliability of conclusions.
46. Victimology #
The study of victims of crimes to understand their characteristics, behavior, and interactions with offenders. Victimology can help investigators profile suspects and solve crimes.
47. Voice Analysis #
The examination of voice recordings to identify speakers or detect deception. Voice analysis can be used in forensic investigations to analyze 911 calls or recorded interviews.
48. Witness Interview #
The process of questioning witnesses to gather information about a crime. Witness interviews are crucial in forensic investigations for obtaining firsthand accounts of events.
49. X #
Ray Fluorescence: A technique used to analyze the elemental composition of materials. X-ray fluorescence is often used in forensic science to identify metals, minerals, and other substances.
50. Y #
Chromosome Analysis: A type of DNA analysis that focuses on the Y chromosome, which is passed down paternally. Y-chromosome analysis is used in forensic investigations to trace male lineage.
51. Zero Tolerance #
A strict enforcement policy that allows no exceptions for a particular behavior. Zero tolerance policies are often used in forensic science labs to ensure the integrity of evidence handling.
52. Algor Mortis #
The cooling of a body after death. Algor mortis can help forensic scientists estimate the time of death by measuring the rate of body temperature change.
53. Bloodstain Pattern Analysis #
The study of bloodstains to reconstruct events at a crime scene. Bloodstain pattern analysis can determine the direction, angle, and impact velocity of blood spatter.
54. Clandestine Grave #
A hidden burial site used to conceal a victim's body. Forensic anthropologists may be called in to excavate clandestine graves and recover human remains.
55. CODIS Hit #
A match between DNA evidence collected at a crime scene and a DNA profile in the CODIS database. CODIS hits can link suspects to crimes or identify unknown individuals.
56. Comparative Analysis #
The process of comparing two or more items of evidence to determine if they have a common origin. Comparative analysis is used in forensic science to link suspects to crime scenes.
57. Crime Scene Reconstruction #
The process of recreating the sequence of events at a crime scene based on physical evidence. Crime scene reconstruction helps investigators understand what happened and why.
58. DNA Database #
A collection of DNA profiles from individuals, suspects, and convicted offenders. DNA databases are used in forensic science to match DNA evidence to known individuals.
59. DNA Profiling #
The process of identifying individuals based on their unique DNA patterns. DNA profiling is a powerful tool in forensic science for linking suspects to crime scenes.
60. Expert System #
A computer program that uses artificial intelligence to mimic the decision-making capabilities of a human expert. Expert systems are used in forensic science to analyze evidence and make recommendations.
61. Forensic Database #
A repository of information used in forensic investigations, such as DNA profiles, fingerprints, and ballistic data. Forensic databases help link evidence to suspects and solve crimes.
62. Forensic Entomology #
The study of insects and their life cycles in forensic investigations. Forensic entomologists use insect evidence to estimate the time of death and link suspects to crime scenes.
63. Forensic Genealogy #
The use of genetic genealogy databases to identify unknown individuals based on their DNA profiles. Forensic genealogy has been used to solve cold cases and identify suspects.
64. Forensic Light Source #
A specialized light source used to detect and enhance trace evidence at crime scenes. Forensic light sources can reveal hidden stains, fibers, and other evidence.
65. Forensic Nursing #
The application of nursing principles to forensic investigations. Forensic nurses may collect evidence, provide medical care to victims, and testify in court.
66. Forensic Odontology #
The application of dental principles to forensic investigations. Forensic odontologists can identify individuals based on dental records and analyze bite marks.
67. Forensic Pathologist #
A medical doctor who specializes in determining the cause and manner of death. Forensic pathologists perform autopsies and analyze medical records in criminal investigations.
68. Forensic Psychiatry #
The application of psychiatric principles to legal issues and investigations. Forensic psychiatrists may assess suspects, provide expert testimony, or evaluate mental competency.
69. Forensic Toxicology #
The study of the effects of drugs and poisons on the body in forensic investigations. Forensic toxicologists analyze biological samples to determine if substances were involved in a crime.
70. Forensic Triage #
The process of prioritizing evidence for analysis based on its relevance and importance to a case. Forensic triage helps investigators focus on key pieces of evidence.
71. Forensic Video Analysis #
The examination of video recordings to enhance and analyze visual evidence. Forensic video analysis can clarify details, identify suspects, and reconstruct events.
72. Glass Fracture Analysis #
The study of glass fragments to determine the direction and force of impact. Glass fracture analysis can help reconstruct events at a crime scene involving broken glass.
73. Handwriting Analysis #
The examination of handwriting to determine the authorship of a document. Handwriting analysis can identify unique characteristics and link suspects to forged documents.
74. Mass Spectrometry #
An analytical technique used to identify and quantify chemicals in a sample. Mass spectrometry is used in forensic science for drug analysis, toxicology, and trace evidence.
75. National DNA Database #
A centralized repository of DNA profiles maintained by a government or law enforcement agency. National DNA databases help solve crimes by linking DNA evidence to suspects.
76. Ninhydrin #
A chemical reagent used to detect and develop latent fingerprints on porous surfaces. Ninhydrin reacts with amino acids in sweat to produce a purple color on fingerprints.
77. Paint Analysis #
The study of paint samples to link suspects or vehicles to crime scenes. Paint analysis can identify the make, model, and origin of paint found at a crime scene.
78. Polygraph Test #
A lie detector test that measures physiological responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. Polygraph tests are used in forensic investigations to assess truthfulness.
79. Postmortem Examination #
A medical examination of a body after death to determine the cause and manner of death. Postmortem examinations are performed by forensic pathologists.
80. Questioned Document #
A document whose authenticity, origin, or contents are in dispute. Questioned documents may be analyzed by forensic document examiners to determine their validity.
81. Serological Analysis #
The study of blood and other bodily fluids in forensic investigations. Serological analysis can identify blood types, DNA, and other biological evidence at crime scenes.
82. Soil Composition Analysis #
The examination of soil samples to identify their mineral content and geographical origin. Soil composition analysis can link suspects or vehicles to specific locations.
83. Spectroscopy #
An analytical technique that uses light to identify and analyze chemicals in a sample. Spectroscopy is used in forensic science for drug analysis, toxicology, and material identification.
84. Strangulation Analysis #
The examination of injuries and evidence related to manual or ligature strangulation. Strangulation analysis can help forensic scientists determine the cause of death in violent crimes.
85. Toolmark Comparison #
The process of matching toolmarks found at a crime scene to specific tools or weapons. Toolmark comparison can link suspects to crimes based on unique patterns.
86. Trace Fiber Analysis #
The examination of microscopic fibers found at a crime scene. Trace fiber analysis can link suspects to crime scenes based on the transfer of clothing fibers.
87. Trace Metal Analysis #
The study of metal fragments found at a crime scene. Trace metal analysis can identify the composition and origin of metal evidence in forensic investigations.
88. Ultraviolet Light #
A type of light used to detect and enhance trace evidence at crime scenes. Ultraviolet light can reveal hidden stains, bodily fluids, and other evidence not visible to the naked eye.
89. Victim Impact Statement #
A written or verbal statement by a crime victim describing the emotional, physical, and financial impact of the crime. Victim impact statements are considered in sentencing hearings.
90. Voiceprint Analysis #
The analysis of voice recordings to identify unique vocal characteristics of speakers. Voiceprint analysis can help identify suspects or match known voices to recordings.
91. Water Recovery Team #
A specialized team of divers and investigators trained to search for and recover evidence in aquatic environments. Water recovery teams assist in locating bodies and evidence in water-related crimes.
92. X #
Ray Diffraction: An analytical technique used to identify the crystal structure of materials. X-ray diffraction is used in forensic science to analyze drugs, minerals, and other substances.
93. Yardstick Principle #
The concept that forensic evidence must be measured against a standard to determine its probative value. The yardstick principle is used to evaluate the significance of evidence in court.
94. Zero Order Reaction #
A chemical reaction where the rate of reaction is independent of the concentration of reactants. Zero order reactions can be used to model the decay of drugs or toxins in the body.
95. AFIS #
Automated Fingerprint Identification System, a computerized database of fingerprint records used for matching and identifying suspects. AFIS helps law enforcement agencies solve crimes by linking fingerprints to individuals.
96. Blood Spatter Analysis #
The study of bloodstain patterns to determine the events that led to their creation. Blood spatter analysis can help reconstruct the dynamics of a crime scene, such as the weapon used and the direction of the attack.
97. CODIS #
Combined DNA Index System, a national DNA database that allows law enforcement agencies to share and compare DNA profiles. CODIS is used to link crimes and identify suspects based on DNA evidence.
98. Forensic Anthropology #
The application of biological anthropology to the identification of human remains in a forensic context. Forensic anthropologists analyze skeletal remains to determine the age, sex, ancestry, and potential cause of death of individuals.
99. Luminol Test #
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