Where is forensic chemistry used

As seen on Court TV, forensic chemists are often called upon to explain what was found and how they arrived at their conclusions. Some employers require forensic chemists to go through several months of mock courtroom testimony training.

Forensic chemists must be able to give an impartial explanation to the jury that will assist in a final judgment—forensic chemists analyze the evidence but do not determine the verdict.

However, there are different types of careers available, including those in other fields of forensic science, academe, or administration. Chemists can also move up within a particular organization, changing responsibilities along the way. For example, the director of a crime lab may supervise other forensic scientists rather than being involved in day-to-day analysis.

A director may also be responsible for case review and general lab management. Some forensic chemists also use their technical training to pursue a career in patent law.

Forensic Chemistry is the application of chemical science or chemistry in solving or proving the crime in the court of law. Chemical science is being used for the analysis of pieces of evidence found at the scene of a crime. Forensic science in the broadest sense utilizes the principles and methodologies associated with basic sciences for the criminal justice system. The analytical approach is making the findings acceptable by the judiciary.

It is the specialized subfield of forensic science. In day to day life, human beings are encountered with useful and useless chemical substances. Some chemicals like medication are helpful for treatment, but on the other hand, overdose and addiction may be associated with suspected deaths. People are unaware of health hazards linked with the prolonged exposure of mercury, arsenic , insecticides and volatile poisons which may lead to sudden death. The tissue and visceral examination may be used for determining the cause of death.

A Brief History of Forensic Chemistry. Mass Spectrometry MS breaks samples apart and separates the ionized fragments by mass and charge. Generally, forensic chemists are trained in organic chemistry. This ensures that the forensic chemists can run analysis on blood and other body samples to identify DNA. They are also trained in organic chemistry so that they can run toxicology screenings.

It is also important for a forensic chemist to have knowledge of physics. If no gunpowder residue is found on a suspect, a chemical analysis of the bullet can still reveal information such as the type of firearm used and how long ago the bullet was fired.

However, over time, nuclear DNA material deteriorates, making it necessary to test other parts of the cell. In addition, mtDNA can be used to solve claims and disputes by identifying persons and lineages from as long as 1, years ago. Justin Higgins has traveled throughout South America.