This book offers a fascinating look at the field of forensic chemistry.From the study of explosives and bodily fluids to drug analysis and fingerprints, chemical methods have played a major role in crime investigation in the last few decades. "Forensic Chemistry" examines the many ways these scientific techniques have infiltrated crime investigation in today's world.This accessible book examines the chemical characteristics of fuels and explosives, as well as arson-related methods; other ways of identifying criminals through chemical processes, including blood and bodily fluid analyses, the chemical characteristics found in fibers and hair, and latent and DNA fingerprinting; and the chemical properties of drug analysis. Biographical information on important researchers in the field is also included. "Forensic Chemistry" is ideal for readers interested in the chemical methods used behind the crime scene.The chapters include: The Origins of Forensic Science; Fingerprinting; Forensic Serology; Toxicology and Drug Testing; Arson and Explosives Investigations; and, DNA Fingerprinting....

This is a comprehensive guide to the role of chemistry in our environment."Chemistry of the Environment" provides a general introduction to the role of chemistry in environmental issues, including air and water pollution, solid wastes, and the relatively new field of green chemistry. Some of the most obvious examples of pollution are smoke produced by industrial operations, carbon dioxide and other gases released into the atmosphere as a by-product of burning fuels, silt and sediment washed off land by rainwater, and garbage dumped on land.This accessible new book discusses the chemical nature of air, water, and solid waste pollution; the biological, chemical, and physical effects of pollutants; and the methods available for the control of each type of pollution. In addition to vast scientific information, this volume presents historical background and a brief introduction to social, political, economic, legal, and other issues related to the environment. Biographical information on important researchers in the field is also provided.The chapters include: The Road to Earth Day; Chemistry of the Air: Pollutants; Chemistry of the Atmosphere: Changes in the Atmosphere; Chemistry of Water Pollution; Chemistry of Solid Waste Disposal; and, Green Chemistry....

In recent years, new forensic methods have revolutionized crime scene investigations so that a single piece of evidence can often determine an individual's guilt or innocence. Tests involving fingerprinting, polygraphs, ballistics, toxicology, voice analysis, DNA typing, and other techniques can be combined or used independently to provide information about a crime. While some procedures produce results that are highly valid and reliable, others yield conclusions that may be uncertain or legally useless. "DNA Evidence and Forensic Science" explores the history of this fascinating topic and the opinions surrounding it, from the early use of fingerprinting to identify civil servants to the latest advances in DNA typing in criminal investigations. Documents such as the Employee Polygraph Protection Act of 1988 and contemporary case studies such as Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals provide multiple perspectives and decisions surrounding this important issue. This invaluable volume features a comprehensive and up-to-date overview essay, capsule biographies, a large annotated bibliography, a chronology of significant events, organization and agency listings, and a glossary to help readers explore the controversy surrounding the issue of DNA evidence and forensic science. Coverage includes: the type of forensic evidence that should be permitted during legal proceedings; whether or not law enforcement should collect DNA samples from suspects during criminal investigations; and, whether or not the federal government should create a national ballistics database and more....

Authoritative and accessible, DNA Technology: A Reference Handbook discusses the scientific developments that have contributed to our current understanding of DNA and the wide application of such technology in numerous fields.

DNA Technology explores early scientists whose work laid the foundation for Watson and Crick's groundbreaking paper, as well as subsequent researchers who have furthered our knowledge of DNA. Readers will see how DNA technology is used to catch criminals, exonerate prisoners, identify disorders, produce more effective drugs, and enhance food production. Beyond explaining the science, the book also addresses the ethical, legal, economic, and social concerns that have been raised over the power to alter life, and gives readers context and background to think through these issues for themselves.

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Building on the original edition's focus on the link between social inequalities and the uneven distribution of environmental hazards in the air, water, and soil, Environmental Justice: A Reference Handbook, Second Edition presents a contemporary look at the convergence of the environmental movement and civil rights activism.

Environmental Justice, Second Edition follows the rise and maturation of the movement focused on environmental racism, describes solutions that have been implemented, and examines issues that remain unresolved. The book offers a wealth of new data and information, particularly in its expanded coverage of environmental disparities in developing countries and its rich bibliography of print and online resources.

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