FS 11 - Survey of Forensic Science Introduction

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the introductory lecture on forensic science.

Forensic Science

The application of scientific theories and methods to assist with civil and criminal investigations.

CSI Effect

A phenomenon where public perception is influenced by crime shows, leading to unrealistic expectations of forensic science.

Chain of Custody

The documentation process that records the handling of evidence from the time it is collected until it is presented in court.

Locard Exchange Principle

A principle stating that the exchange of materials occurs whenever two objects come into contact.

DNA Profiling

A forensic technique used to identify individuals based on their unique genetic makeup.

Pattern Evidence

Evidence that can establish a link between an object and a suspect based on specific patterns.

Class Characteristics

Features that are common to a group of items but not unique to a single item.

Individual Characteristics

Properties that are unique to a single object or person, often used for identification purposes.

Probative Value

The ability of evidence to make a relevant fact more or less probable.

STRs (Short Tandem Repeats)

Repeating sequences in DNA that can be used in genetic profiling.

Antistius

The individual credited with the first known autopsy in history, performed on Julius Caesar.

Edmond Locard

Known as the father of forensic science; formulated the Locard Exchange Principle.

Victor Balthazard

A pioneer in forensic science known for probability models regarding fingerprints and hair analysis.

Mathieu Orfila

A toxicologist known as the father of toxicology; authored a significant treatise on poisons.

Hans Gross

The father of criminalistics who emphasized the scientific basis of criminal investigations.

Sir Francis Galton

A pioneer in fingerprint classification and the study of heredity; known for his work on the uniqueness of fingerprints.

Sung Tz’u

An author from 1247 AD credited with the first written record documenting forensic science approaches.

Autopsy

A postmortem examination to determine the cause of death.

Forensics

The application of scientific methods and techniques to investigate crimes.