Final answer:
Forensic anthropologists utilize biological anthropology to aid in criminal investigations, often dealing with human skeletal remains to assist in identifying victims and informing on aspects of death but not determining the cause. They work closely with forensic pathologists, providing them with necessary details for a final cause of death determination. This field also extends to historical cases and has applications in non-academic sectors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Roles of a Forensic Anthropologist: A forensic anthropologist applies expertise in biological anthropology to aid in criminal investigations, particularly where skeletal remains are involved. Their role includes the excavation and recovery of human remains, determining if bones are human or animal, and estimating age, sex, race, and stature. They provide crucial information but do not determine the cause of death; instead, they relay their findings to a forensic pathologist who integrates this data to reach a conclusion. In addition to crime scene analysis, forensic anthropologists may contribute to historical inquiries, like the identification of the remains of war victims, or work in various non-academic sectors that require an understanding of human anatomy. The science of forensic anthropology encompasses a wide spectrum of skills, from archaeological excavation techniques and analysis of hair, to estimating the postmortem interval, and interpreting injuries or changes in skeletons. It is a field that combines archaeological, biological, and legal knowledge to assist in solving cases. Forensic anthropologists often testify as expert witnesses in court, bringing scientific evidence to trials, and are valuable in understanding complex death scenes that extend beyond straightforward medical explanations.