Fundamentals of Forensic Science
By- Max Houck, Director, Forensic Science Initiative, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Jay Siegel, Director, Forensic and Investigative Sciences Program, Indiana University - Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
Unlike other introductory textbooks on the topic, Fundamentals of Forensic Science, 2e presents a complete look at the forensic sciences, emphasizing the biology, chemistry, and physical sciences that underpin forensic science. Over 40% of newly revised content, covering the principles that are central to forensic science. Discussing topics that are typically excluded from generalized discussions of criminalistics, this book provides a depth and breadth of information that no other textbook contains. Written by two of the leading experts in forensic science today, Fundamentals of Forensic Science, 2e approaches the field from a truly unique and exciting perspective.
Ranging from traditional topics such as crime scene investigation, spectroscopy, and DNA analysis, to the less-commonly covered --but just as essential-- topics of pathology, entomology, and anthropology, Fundamentals of Forensic Science, 2e is everything a student or practicing professional needs. Organized along the timeline of a real case, it begins with an introduction and history of forensic science, covers the basic methods of analysis used in most forensic examinations, addresses the biological, chemical, and physical elements relevant to the field, and concludes with an examination of how forensic science intersects with the law.
Audience
Students in forensic science, professionals in the various forensic disciplines - fire, chemistry, crime scene, trace evidence, law enforcement personnel, lawyers and defense attorneys.
Hardbound, 680 Pages
Published: January 2010
Imprint: Academic Press
ISBN: 978-0-12-374989-5
Reviews
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"[A] complete look at the core disciplines, emphasizing biology, chemistry, and physical sciences that underpin forensic science. For example, a chapter on "Forensic Hair Examinations" begins by explaining how hair grows and its microanatomy, before moving on to discuss how to differentiate between human and non-human hair, how to estimate the ethnicity or ancestry of an individual from hair, and the process of comparing a known hair sample to a questioned hair. It is written and organized in a logical and practical manner that engages the reader to learn more."--
Evidence Technology Magazine
Contents
- I. Criminal Justice and Forensic Science
1. Introduction
2. Crime Scene Investigation
3. The Nature of Evidence
II. Analytical Tools
4. Microscopy
5. Light and Matter
6. Separation Methods
III. Biological Sciences
7. Pathology
8. Anthropology and Odontology
9. Entomology
10. Serology and Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
11. DNA Analysis
12. Forensic Hair Examinations
IV. Chemical Sciences
13. Illicit Drugs
14. Forensic Toxicology
15. Textile Fibers
16. Paint Analysis
17. Soil and Glass
18. Fires and Explosions
V. Physical Sciences
19. Fiction Ridge Examination
20. Questioned documents
21. Firearms and Tool Marks
22. Impression Evidence
VI. Law and Forensic Science
23. Legal Aspects of Forensic Science

