Drugs in Forensic Science

Flashcards to review key vocabulary and definitions from the lecture on drugs in forensic science.

Drug

A natural or synthetic substance that produces physiological or psychological effects in humans or other higher order animals.

Psychological Dependence

A reliance on a drug characterized by emotional or mental preoccupation with the substance.

Physical Dependence

A physiological need for a drug due to regular use, leading to withdrawal symptoms.

Narcotic

An analgesic or painkilling substance that depresses vital body functions.

Opiate

Most drugs classified as narcotics, typically derived from opium that reduce or eliminate pain.

Synthetic Opiates

Opiates that are chemically manufactured and produce physiological effects similar to natural opiates.

Hallucinogens

Drugs that cause marked alterations in mood, thought processes, and perceptions.

Depressants

Substances that calm the central nervous system and may induce sleep.

Stimulants

Substances that increase alertness and activity, followed by fatigue.

Club Drugs

Synthetic drugs used in nightclubs or raves, often associated with drug-facilitated sexual assault.

Anabolic Steroids

Synthetic compounds related to testosterone that promote muscle growth and secondary male characteristics.

Controlled Substances Act

U.S. federal law that classifies drugs and substances to prevent and control drug abuse.

Schedule I Drugs

Drugs with a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use.

Screening Test

A preliminary test used to narrow down the possibilities of an unknown substance.

Confirmation Test

A definitive test that specifically identifies a substance.

Chromatography

Analytical technique for separating mixtures into their components based on their distribution between stationary and mobile phases.

Mass Spectrometry

An analytical technique that measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions to identify substances.

Spectrophotometry

A method for identifying a substance based on its absorption of different wavelengths of light.

Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC)

A technique to separate components of a mixture using a solid stationary phase and a liquid mobile phase.

Microscopic tests

Tests used to identify specific substances based on the color and morphology of crystals.