Question

Forensic scientists use science to solve crimes, and researchers at labs around the world are developing new techniques to do this. Gilbert's team, for instance, is investigating how microbial signatures might identify suspects. Another research group is working on a way to identify people from proteins found in a tiny strand of hair. Yet another scientist is studying the microbes that gather on a person's body after death. The mix of microbes living on a corpse could point precisely to when their host had died. What is the primary focus of forensic scientists in this passage?

A) DNA Analysis

B) Microbial Signatures

C) Hair Proteins

D) Post-Mortem Decomposition

Answer 1

Forensic scientists in the passage are primarily focused on a range of techniques to solve crimes, including microbial signatures, protein analysis in hair, and studying post-mortem microbial communities to estimate time of death.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary focus of forensic scientists in the passage provided is not solely on one specific method but on the various techniques used within the field of forensic science to solve crimes. Gilbert's team is noted for investigating how microbial signatures might identify suspects, which implies a focus on the unique microbial communities associated with individuals. Another research effort is centered on identifying people from proteins found in a strand of hair, while a different scientist is studying the mix of microbes on a corpse to determine the time of death. These approaches demonstrate the breadth of forensic science, which includes DNA analysis, microbial examination, identification through hair protein analysis and post-mortem decomposition studies.