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Lesson 1.1 - Basic Concepts of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology

Forensic chemistry and toxicology play important roles in forensic investigations. Forensic chemistry refers to the application of chemical theories and principles to solve legal problems, while forensic toxicology analyzes biological samples to detect toxins like drugs. Together, they can be used to identify unknown substances that may be misidentified and analyze samples to determine if toxic substance levels are therapeutic or harmful, aiding in legal cases.

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814 views8 pages

Lesson 1.1 - Basic Concepts of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology

Forensic chemistry and toxicology play important roles in forensic investigations. Forensic chemistry refers to the application of chemical theories and principles to solve legal problems, while forensic toxicology analyzes biological samples to detect toxins like drugs. Together, they can be used to identify unknown substances that may be misidentified and analyze samples to determine if toxic substance levels are therapeutic or harmful, aiding in legal cases.

Uploaded by

chauncymaturan2
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Topic 1 –

Basic Concept of
Forensic Chemistry and
Toxicology
Learning Objectives
At the end of this lesson, the student will
be able to:
1. Understand the basic concept of
Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology
and its role in Forensic Investigation.
2. Know the meaning of the following
words:
- forensic
- forensic chemistry
- forensic toxicology
Topic 1– Basic Concept of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology

 What is Forensic Chemistry?


Forensic chemistry refers to the branch of chemistry that deals with the
application of chemical theories and principles in the solution of legal
problems in relation to the administration of justice.

This field of study applies science and technology to investigate and


establish facts in criminal or civil courts of law.

In short and simpler way to define – Forensic chemistry is the application


of chemistry to law. (Khan, Kennedy, and Christian 2012).

Note: CTTO
Topic 1– Basic Concept of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology

 What is Forensic Chemistry?


Forensic chemistry is the analytical study of substances that could
easily be misidentified causing confusion., thus it wont be easily
identified.

Forensic chemists analyze the physical and chemical properties of


different materials so they can identify them correctly , especially if
one or more materials may have similar properties.

Note: CTTO
Topic 1– Basic Concept of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology

 What is Forensic Chemistry?


The word “forensic” is coming from the Latin word forensis, which means “of
the forum”, or speaking the truth in public.

The forum, arguably is the historical equivalent of modern-day courts, is also


a place where ancient Romans used to conduct public discussions.

Therefore, forensic science is the application of scientific principles to


criminal and civil laws, which are enforced by police agencies in a criminal
justice system (Bertino, 2012)

Note: CTTO
Topic 1– Basic Concept of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology

 What is
Toxicology?
Toxicology refers to the science of detecting and identifying the presence of
drugs and poisons in tissues, organs, and body fluids.

There is a specialized area of toxicology called toxinology, which deals


specifically with animal, plant and microbial toxins; however, this is
considered science in its own right.

Toxins are natural substances produced by living organisms, whereas toxic


substances are synthetic substances from chemicals, which are considered
toxicants.

Note: CTTO
Topic 1– Basic Concept of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology

 What is Forensic Toxicology?

Can be defined as the science that deals with medical and legal aspects of the
harmful effects of the chemicals on the human body.

It is considered a hybrid of analytical chemistry and fundamental toxicology.

It is the analysis of biological samples for the presence of toxins, including


drugs. The toxicology report can provide key information as to the type of
substances present in an individual and if the amount of those substances is
consistent with a therapeutic dosage or is above a harmful level.

Note: CTTO
Topic 1– Basic Concept of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology

Review Questions:

1. What is forensic chemistry?

2. What is forensic toxicology?

3. Cite a case sample where forensic chemistry


and toxicology analysis can be applied?

Note: CTTO

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