Geological and Soil Evidence

Geological and Soil Evidence

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Summary

Emphasizing the importance of earth science in forensic analyses, this book traces the origins of soil found on a body, discovering diatoms in a victim's lungs that indicate immersion in water, and analyzing dirt for evidence of human contact. It explains procedures particular to criminalistics analysis.

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Geological and Soil Evidence by Kenneth Pye

The forensic potential of geological and soil evidence has been recognized for more than a century, but recently these types of evidence are used much more widely as an investigative intelligence tool and as evidence in court. There is, however, still a poor understanding of the potential value and the limitations of geological and soil evidence among the forensic science and wider legal communities. Geological and Soil Evidence: Forensic Applications provides an authoritative introduction to the nature and properties of geological and soil materials that may be used as trace evidence and the techniques used to analyze and evaluate them. It emphasizes the use of geoscience in forensic analyses, including geophysical, meteorological, and geomorphological data. This inclusive book covers material types and analytical strategies used in examining both the common components of geological evidence, such as rocks, dusts, minerals, spores, and microfossils, as well as anthropogenic particles like pottery and brick. It instructs on particle characterization based on physical, chemical, and mineralogical traits such as color, shape, density, and elemental and isotopic composition. It also explains sampling and handling procedures particular to criminalistics and introduces analysis, evaluation, and decision-making practices based on statistical significance and the weighing of different types of evidence. Discussions of basic principles are supported and enhanced with numerous case studies that tie methods of analysis to specific forensic applications. Examples are drawn from the author's own experience as well as the wider scientific literature. Accessible enough for readers with limited scientific knowledge and informative enough for scientists interested in forensic applications, Geological and Soil Evidence: Forensic Applications is a comprehensive reference for the current knowledge of forensic geology and soil science.

"This is a thoroughly useful book which did not disappoint meIt will certainly help to provide a platform for better communication. It is well referenced and has a good index to ensure easier navigation through its content. Well worth adding to any serious forensic library!"

– James Robertson, National Manager, Forensic and Technical, Australian Federal Police, Palgrave, September 2008

Kenneth Pye Associates, Ltd, Crowthorne, Berkshire, UK
SKU Unavailable
ISBN 13 9780849331466
ISBN 10 0849331463
Title Geological and Soil Evidence
Author Kenneth Pye
Condition Unavailable
Binding Type Hardback
Publisher Taylor & Francis Inc
Year published 2007-04-19
Number of pages 360
Cover note Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.