| The chemistry behind criminal investigations as well as some developments in analysis of biologically important molecules. Topics to be covered include enzyme and DNA analysis, mass spectrometry and spectral interpretation, the detection and identification of explosives and fire accelerants, methods of connecting the suspect to the scene of a crime (analysis of fingerprints, fibers, glass fragments, soil and gunshot residue), the analysis of drugs and poisons, and the detection of forgeries using ink, paint and materials analysis. The course is designed to have a lab component that uses both instrumental and "wet chemical" methods of analysis. Offered alternate January terms. Prerequisite: CHEM 201 |
