Question

Provide 3 examples of the types of chemistry tests that Forensic Labs use to aid in criminal investigations. Be specific in your details.

a) Gas Chromatography
b) Mass Spectrometry
c) DNA Sequencing
d) Titration

Answer 1

Forensic labs conduct various chemical analyses, including Gas Chromatography for substance separation, Mass Spectrometry for compound identification, and DNA Sequencing for individual genetic profiling in criminal investigations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Forensic Chemistry Tests

Forensic labs utilize a variety of chemistry tests to aid in criminal investigations. Here are three examples:

1. Gas Chromatography (GC): This analytical method is used to separate chemical compounds in a mixture and is often followed by another technique such as mass spectrometry for identification. GC is particularly useful in analyzing substances such as drugs, fire debris, and alcohol levels in blood.
2. Mass Spectrometry (MS): MS works by ionizing chemical compounds to generate charged molecules and measuring their mass-to-charge ratios. Used in conjunction with gas chromatography, MS can identify and quantify unknown compounds with high precision, essential in cases involving drug identification, toxicology, and fire investigation.
3. DNA Sequencing: In forensic science, DNA sequencing is used to identify individuals by analyzing their unique genetic makeup. Techniques like Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis amplify specific DNA regions for comparison against known profiles, playing a pivotal role in cases of assault, murder, and paternity testing.