Reading Assignment for Section 4.2

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 4.2: Glass & Soil Evidence.

What You Will Learn

In this section, you’ll explore the different types of glass commonly encountered in forensic investigations and understand how forensic experts compare known and questioned glass samples. You’ll learn about the significance of class and individual characteristics in glass analysis and how these features help establish links between suspects and crime scenes. Additionally, you’ll delve into the role of soil evidence, examining the methods for collecting and analyzing soil samples while considering the challenges of maintaining accuracy and preventing contamination. Finally, you’ll evaluate best practices for soil sample collection and the complexities forensic scientists face when analyzing glass and soil evidence.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 4.2

• SLO 1: Identify the various types of glass commonly encountered in forensic analysis and describe the process used by forensic experts to compare known and questioned glass samples.
• SLO 2: Explain the importance of class and individual characteristics in glass analysis, and discuss how these characteristics are used to establish potential links between suspects and crime scenes.
• SLO 3: Describe the role of soil evidence in forensic science, including the methods used for collecting and analyzing soil samples, and assess the challenges associated with ensuring the accuracy and contamination-free handling of soil evidence.
• SLO 4: Evaluate best practices for soil sample collection, including the importance of strategic sampling, proper packaging, and labeling, as well as techniques for minimizing contamination and preserving the integrity of the samples.
• SLO 5: Discuss the challenges forensic scientists face in analyzing glass and soil evidence, including the complexity of accurately tracing the origins of such evidence and the potential for contamination during collection and analysis.