Forensic science testing has come a long way from the days where physical profile matching and witnesses solved cases. Today, technology and scientific advancements give authorities plenty of avenues to solve a crime, including these common forensic science testing methods.
Anthropological Testing
Anthropological examinations help uncover information about a victim through bone fragments. X-rays can reveal their age, race, sex, and stature. Forensic scientists can then compare this information to descriptions of a missing person to verify the identity. The X-rays can also help determine any damage such as bullet wounds or breakage.
Chromatography
Gas and liquid chromatography separation techniques are standard in many applications, including forensic work. While they have many uses, some of the most common include:
- Drug detection
- Analysis of explosive substances
- Toxicology reports
- Arson detection
- Blood and fiber sampling
DNA Testing
Most people are familiar with DNA testing. This testing can connect body tissue, blood, and other fluids with an individual. A DNA sequencer device can help figure out the order in which the four DNA bases are arranged in a specific DNA sample. Crime lab technicians and forensic scientists use a DNA sequencer to match the sample with a suspect’s DNA.
Polymerase Chain Reaction
PCR, or the polymerase chain reaction technique, takes a single copy of DNA and replicates it thousands of times so that forensic scientists can test it against the DNA evidence of the potential suspect. This method is beneficial in cases that don’t have enough DNA evidence to solve the case.
Fingerprint Analysis
While there are several ways to use fingerprints in a criminal case, the most common method used to convict criminals is dusting. Forensic scientists use black granular powder to locate prints and then lift them with adhesive tape.
Forensic science advancements are crucial to solving crimes accurately and efficiently. These common forensic science testing methods are just a few examples of vital analysis methodology.
