Final answer:
Forensic science is the use of scientific methods to provide evidence in legal cases, often by analyzing trace materials from crime scenes, including DNA. It covers multiple disciplines like DNA analysis, document examination, and ballistics. Forensic scientists typically possess a bachelor's degree in a scientific field.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition and Disciplines of Forensic Science
Forensic science is defined as the application of scientific principles and techniques to answer questions and solve problems that have legal implications. Biologists, chemists, and biochemists often become forensic scientists, and their work can be critical in legal cases.
Their roles involve providing scientific evidence for use in courts by examining trace materials found at crime scenes, analyzing biological samples such as hair, blood, and other body fluids, and processing DNA evidence. This evidence can then be compared to DNA databases to aid in crime solving.
Forensic science encompasses a variety of disciplines, including:
- DNA analysis, which might involve techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and electrophoresis of short tandem repeat (STR) loci.
- Analysis of other biological evidence, such as insect larvae or pollen grains.
- Document and handwriting examination.
- Firearms and ballistics.
- Forensic pathology and anthropology.
Due to the diverse nature of the field, aspiring forensic scientists are often expected to have at least a bachelor's degree in a scientific subject such as chemistry, biology, or physics, with a strong foundation in laboratory experience.
Interest in the niche has surged recently, likely due to popular media portrayals and advancements in molecular biology and DNA technology.