Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction -- Crime scene -- Physical evidence -- Physical properties: glass and soil -- Organic analysis -- Inorganic analysis -- Microscope -- Hairs, fibers, and paint -- Drugs -- Forensic toxicology -- Forensic aspects of arson and explosion investigations -- Forensic serology -- DNA: the indispensable forensic science tool -- Fingerprints -- Firearms, tool makers, and other impressions -- Document and voice examination -- Forensic science on the Internet -- Future -- Case readings -- APPENDICES: I: Guides to the collection of physical evidence: FBI -- II: Instructions for collecting gunshot residue (GSR) -- III: FBI policy for submitting DNA evidence -- IV: Chromatographic and spectrophotometic parameters for figures contained within the text -- V: Chemical formulas for latent fingerprint development -- VI: Chemical formulas for development of footwear impressions in blood.