Question

unit 12 question analysis practice
part i examine the questions below and annotate the critical components (highlight, underline, circle). in the spaces provided, explain in your own words what the question is asking you to do, paying close attention to the instruction words. utilize your handout for support as needed.

1. evaluate the role of forensic science in modern criminal justice. use at least one case example to support your explanation.
2. list and describe three major branches of forensic science, including what each focuses on.
3. assess (evaluate) the impact of forensic scientists on solving crimes. how might mistakes at the scene affect the outcome of a case?
4. explain why chain of custody is important for evidence in criminal cases.
5. examine a case where forensic toxicology played a critical role. how did the toxicology evidence influence the verdict?

Explanation:

1. Forensic science aids in modern criminal justice by providing scientific evidence for investigations and court - cases. For example, DNA analysis can link suspects to crime scenes.
2. Three major branches of forensic science are forensic biology (focuses on biological evidence like blood, DNA), forensic chemistry (analyzes chemical substances such as drugs, explosives), and forensic toxicology (studies the presence and effects of toxins in the body).
3. Forensic scientists impact crime - solving by collecting and analyzing evidence. Mistakes at the scene can contaminate evidence, leading to incorrect conclusions and wrongful verdicts.
4. Chain of custody is important as it ensures the integrity of evidence, showing who had access to it and when, preventing tampering or misplacement.
5. In cases like a poisoning, forensic toxicology evidence can determine the cause of death and identify the perpetrator if the toxin was administered maliciously, thus influencing the verdict.

Answer:

1. Forensic science provides scientific evidence for criminal investigations and court - cases. For example, in DNA - based criminal cases, it can identify suspects.
2. Forensic biology: Focuses on biological evidence like blood and DNA. Forensic chemistry: Analyzes chemical substances such as drugs and explosives. Forensic toxicology: Studies toxins in the body.
3. Forensic scientists help in collecting and analyzing evidence. Scene mistakes can contaminate evidence and lead to wrong outcomes.
4. Chain of custody ensures evidence integrity by tracking access, preventing tampering.
5. In poisoning cases, forensic toxicology evidence can determine cause of death and influence the verdict.