Forensic Science Week 2026

2. a point on a fingerprint where a single friction ridge splits into two separate ridges
6. any impression, scratch, gouge, cut, or abrasion made when a tool comes into contact with another object
9. the state or process of rotting
11. the study of the harmful effects of chemicals, substances, or environmental agents on living systems
12. the criminal act of deliberately setting fire to property

1. The physical act or omission that constitutes a criminal offense; can be voluntary acts or failures to act when there is a legal duty
3. chemical compound that turns purple when it contacts amino acids, the building blocks of proteins
4. any oral or written statement a witness provides under oath during a trial, hearing, or deposition
5. A medical examination of a body after death to determine the cause of death and any disease or injury present
7. an invisible fingerprint left on a surface by the natural oils and sweat from the skin, which requires special techniques to be visualized
8. The mental state or intent behind a crime, including specific intent, general intent, malice, or strict liability
10. relating to or denoting the application of scientific methods and techniques to the investigation of crime