Introduction to Forensic Chemistry

Forensic chemistry plays a critical role in criminal investigations by converting physical evidence into actionable scientific facts. This written course provides a foundational entry point into the field, guiding you through core chemical analysis concepts and evidence handling procedures. By building a strong conceptual groundwork, you will understand how modern laboratories identify unknown substances and process trace materials. What you'll learn: Learn essential terminology, lab safety protocols, and chain-of-custody procedures for physical evidence; Understand common analytical techniques including chromatography, spectroscopy, and microchemical tests; Explore the identification process for controlled substances, toxic compounds, and trace residues; Discover modern instrumental analysis workflows and data verification standards used in contemporary labs; Practice evaluating hypothetical forensic scenarios through step-by-step written case analyses. The material begins with foundational definitions, core chemical concepts, and standard evidence protocols before progressing into specific analytical applications. This course is created for complete beginners, requiring no prior experience in chemistry or forensic science. Start reading today to build your understanding of chemical forensic science.