Course Description
A forensic chemist uses the principles and techniques of chemistry to analyze physical evidence within the crime lab. This introductory laboratory course for non-science majors teaches the elementary concepts of chemistry through the lens of forensic chemistry.
Athena Title
Intro to Forensic Chem Lab
Corequisite
CHEM 1103
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
- By the end of the class, the student should be able to engage in safe laboratory practices when handling chemicals and using laboratory glassware and equipment, as well as understand the safe disposal of chemical waste.
- By the end of the class, the student will collect, measure, and analyze laboratory data using traditional wet chemistry techniques.
- By the end of the semester, the student will critically evaluate experimental results and identify systemic and human errors.
- By the end of the semester, students will make connections between the various scientific disciplines used in forensic science and demonstrate their knowledge and ability on lab reports and exams.
- By the end of the semester, students will demonstrate teamwork and communication by investigating a crime scene and collecting and analyzing data and evaluating results in order to draw conclusions as part of a team and submit a written report once the crime has been solved.
Topical Outline
- 1. Measurements
- 2. Soil Examination
- 3. Thin Layer Chromatography Analysis
- 4. Urine and Blood Analysis
- 5. Blood Alcohol Concentration
- 6. Fingerprints
- 7. Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
- 8. UV-vis Analysis of Food Dyes
- 9. Introduction to Chemical Instrumentation
- 10. Microscopy
- 11. Hair
- 12. Footwear Impressions and Physical Matches
