1.
The application of scientific knowledge and methodology to legal problems and criminal investigations.
2.
The physical location where a crime has occurred or is suspected of having occurred.
3.
The documented, unbroken record of everyone who has had possession of a piece of evidence to prevent tampering.
4.
(MO): A Latin term meaning "method of operation," referring to the specific pattern or manner in which a criminal commits a crime.
5.
The theory that every contact between two people or objects results in a physical transfer of materials.
6.
Small but measurable amounts of physical material, such as hair, fibers, or skin cells, found at a crime scene.
7.
Evidence that relies on an inference to connect it to a conclusion of fact, such as a fingerprint at the scene rather than an eyewitness account.
8.
A hidden fingerprint made by the deposit of oils or perspiration that is invisible to the naked eye until treated with powders or chemicals.
9.
Material that can be associated with a group of items but not a single source, such as a specific brand of tire or a common fiber.
10.
Material that can be traced back to a single, unique source, such as DNA or a specific worn tool mark.
11.
The scientific study of projectiles (bullets) and firearms, including their motion and effects.
12.
The study of poisons, drugs, and toxins and their effects on the human body.
13.
The scientific study of blood and other bodily fluids to identify biological materials.
14.
A detailed medical examination of a body after death to determine the cause and manner of death.
15.
The postmortem stiffening of muscles that occurs within a few hours of death, used to estimate the time of death
