Forensic Science Revision Flashcards

Flashcards to help revise key concepts in Forensic Science.

Forensic Science

The application of scientific knowledge to legal problems.

Forensic Scientists

Experts in various fields (e.g., biology, chemistry, ballistics) who analyze evidence to assist in legal investigations.

Locard’s Exchange Principle

Every contact leaves a trace; when a person comes into contact with an object or another person, a cross-transfer of physical material can occur.

Crime Scene Contamination Prevention

Involves steps to secure the scene, limit access, and use protective equipment to avoid introducing foreign materials.

Crime Scene Photos and Drawings

Detailed documentation to record the original state of the crime scene and the position of evidence.

Biomacromolecules (4 Types)

Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids (DNA/RNA).

Contact Evidence

Evidence resulting from physical contact between a suspect and a victim or crime scene.

Trace Evidence

Small, often microscopic, materials that can link a suspect to a crime scene (e.g., hair, fibers).

Autopsy

A post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death.

Forensic Tools and Techniques

Methods like microscopy, spectroscopy, and DNA analysis used in investigations; they have evolved significantly over time with technological advancements.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms.

How DNA is made up

Made up of nucleotides, each containing a phosphate group, a sugar group, and a nitrogen base (adenine, thymine, guanine, or cytosine).

DNA in Solving Crimes

Used to match suspects to biological evidence, identify victims, and exonerate the wrongly accused.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A technique used to amplify small amounts of DNA to create many copies for analysis.

PCR Use

Used when only a limited amount of DNA evidence is available.

Gel Electrophoresis

A technique used to separate DNA fragments based on size.

Blood Groups (4 Types)

A, B, AB, and O.

Blood Group Determination

Identified by the presence or absence of specific antigens on red blood cells.

Universal Blood Donor

Type O blood.

AB Blood Group Receives From

Can receive blood from A , B , AB and O blood groups.

Blood Spatter Analysis

Speed, angle and Height

Nervous System Role

Controls and coordinates bodily functions; transmits signals between different parts of the body.

Nervous System Parts

Central Nervous System (brain and spinal cord) and Peripheral Nervous System (nerves connecting the CNS to the rest of the body).

Polygraph Test

Measures physiological responses (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure) to detect deception. Not considered reliable due to high error rates.

Fingerprints at crime scene

Latent (invisible) and Patent (visible).

Fingerprint Detection

Latent prints are detected using powders or chemicals.

Fingerprint Patterns

Loops, whorls, arches, and tented arches.

Microscope Function

Magnifies small objects for detailed examination.

Hair as Evidence

Can provide information about a person's identity, race, and sometimes drug use.

Brain Main Parts

Cerebrum, cerebellum, brainstem, Medulla.

Memory

The process of encoding, storing, and retrieving information.

Brain Part Responsible for Memory

Hippocampus.

Memory Stages

Encoding (processing sensory information), storage (maintaining information over time), and retrieval (accessing stored information).

Short-term vs. Long-term Memory

Short-term memory is temporary; long-term memory is more permanent and has a larger capacity.

Eyewitness Testimony

An account given by people of an event they have witnessed.

Factors Affecting Eyewitness Testimony

Stress, leading questions, and reconstructive memory can affect eyewitness testimony.

Principles for Police Lineups

Blind administration, unbiased instructions, and functional size.

Forensic Science Improvements

DNA analysis, digital forensics, and improved microscopy have enhanced crime-solving capabilities.

Entomology

The study of insects; used to estimate time since death.

Future Forensics Advances

Advanced DNA sequencing and better digital forensics tools.

Bioethics

The study of ethical issues emerging from advances in biology and medicine.

Medulla

Is part of the brainstem. It helps regulate breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.

Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain, responsible for higher functions such as thought, memory, and voluntary movement.

Cerebellum

Coordinates movement and maintains balance and posture.

Hippocampus

Part of the brain responsible for memory.