| When studying trace evidence found at the crime | | | | radiation emissions, the forensic scientist can reveal |
| scene, forensic scientists use in their arsenal tools | | | | the chemical characteristics of the sample. This |
| other than microscopes at their disposal. Using the | | | | procedure is very useful in studying paint, hair, |
| following methods, which are the most commonly | | | | metals, soil, and many other samples. |
| used ones, forensic scientists can ascertain the | | | | - X-ray Diffraction: In this laboratory technique, |
| chemical characteristics of trace evidence. This helps | | | | X-rays are shot at objects or materials. The way the |
| them find out if the tested samples are the same | | | | X-ray beams scatters displays how atoms and |
| and thus share the same origin. | | | | molecules in the sample are arranged. The |
| - Infrared (IR) Spectrophotometry: This laboratory | | | | arrangement of these atoms and molecules in a |
| method requires exposing samples of trace evidence | | | | sample is referred to as a chemical fingerprint of the |
| to infrared radiation. Different samples absorb infrared | | | | sample. This laboratory technique is useful in studying |
| light at different wavelengths. It is these differences | | | | trace evidence such as paint and soil. |
| that discern the one sample from another. | | | | By using these laboratory techniques to study trace |
| - Neutron Activation Analysis: This method is a bit | | | | evidence such as paint chips, forensic scientists can |
| cumbersome and requires the use of a nuclear | | | | come one step closer in solving a crime based on the |
| reactor. Neutrons are shot at the sample and collid | | | | evidence left at the crime scene. |
| with its components. The result is that each | | | | Forensic science can help bring the offender to |
| component releases radiation at its own unique | | | | justice. |
| energy level. By measuring the levels of those | | | | |