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Chemistry in Forensics
From Teachers TV, this Inside Science video looks at two murder investigations and uncovers the chemistry and biochemistry behind the forensic testing that helped resolve the cases.
Ten-year-old Damilola Taylor died after being attacked by a gang and receiving fatal leg wounds. Chantel Taylor, whose body has never been found, was originally a missing person but investigations revealed she was murdered.
Lead forensic scientists explain how a GCMS (Gas Chromatograph Mass Spectrometer) helped establish the death of Chantel Taylor, while re-examined evidence and DNA profiling helped in the Damilola Taylor case.
Advanced chemical screening techniques, the Kastle Meyer test and the use of Luminol, used at crime scenes can assist investigators in identifying traces of blood. Here, the techniques are explained and demonstrated.
The video helps to illustrate the how science works and the applications of science.
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