Fundamentals of Forensic Science - Hardcover

Houck, Max M.; Siegel, Jay A.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0123567629 ISBN 13: 9780123567628

Publisher: Academic Press, 2006

Synopsis

Fundamentals of Forensic Science offers a complete look at the core topics of forensic science.

It represents the most realistic view of the field by including areas that, while central to criminal investigation, fall outside the typical definition of criminalistics. These areas include pathology, entomology, anthropology, and other areas of scientific study unique to forensic textbooks.

Organized by the timeline of a real case, the text begins with an introduction and history of forensic science. It then covers the methods of analysis used in most forensic examinations, addressing the biological, chemical and physical elements relevant to the field, and concluding with an examination of how forensic science intersects with law. Feature boxes throughout the text contain online resource listings, historical events in forensic science, practical issues in laboratory analysis, and topics for further reading or interest.

This book is recommended for students in forensic science and professionals in the various forensic disciplines – fire, chemistry, crime scene, trace evidence, law enforcement personnel, lawyers, and defense attorneys.

- Vivid, full-color illustrations that diagram key concepts and depict evidence encountered in the field
- Straightforward unit organization that includes key terms, numerous feature boxes emphasizing resources on the World Wide Web, historical events in forensic science, practical issues in laboratory analysis, and topics for further reading
- Effective pedagogy -including end-of-chapter questions- paired with a clear writing style makes this an invaluable resource for professors and students of forensic science

About this title

Review:

Introductory text that takes the most complete look at the core topics within forensic science.

Synopsis:

Unlike other introductory textbooks on the topic, "Fundamentals of Forensic Science" presents a complete look at the forensic sciences, emphasizing the biology, chemistry, and physical sciences that underpin forensic science. By covering the principles that are central to forensic science, and by discussing topics that are typically excluded from generalized discussions of criminalistics, this book provides a depth and breadth of information that no other textbook contains. Written by two of the leading experts in forensic science today, "Fundamentals of Forensic Science" approaches the field from a truly unique and exciting perspective. Ranging from traditional topics such as crime scene investigation, spectroscopy, and DNA analysis, to the less-commonly covered - but just as essential - topics of pathology, entomology, and anthropology, "Fundamentals of Forensic Science" is everything a student or practicing professional needs.

Organized along the timeline of a real case, it begins with an introduction and history of forensic science, covers the basic methods of analysis used in most forensic examinations, addresses the biological, chemical, and physical elements relevant to the field, and concludes with an examination of how forensic science intersects with the law. It includes vivid, full-color illustrations that diagram key concepts and depict evidence encountered in the field. It has straightforward unit organization that includes key terms, numerous feature boxes emphasizing resources on the World Wide Web, historical events in forensic science, practical issues in laboratory analysis, and topics for further reading. It includes effective pedagogy including end-of-chapter questions paired with a clear writing style makes this an invaluable resource for professors and students of forensic science.

About this edition

• Publisher: Academic Press
• Publication date: 2006
• ISBN 10: 0123567629
• ISBN 13: 9780123567628
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 688