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Shakez Trace

The document discusses the working principles of various microscopes and analytical techniques used in forensic science, including the comparison microscope, polarized light microscope, stereo microscope, SEM-EDS, and FTIR. Each technique is described in terms of its functionality, illumination methods, applications, and significance in analyzing materials. The document also includes references for further reading on the subject.

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4 views

Shakez Trace

The document discusses the working principles of various microscopes and analytical techniques used in forensic science, including the comparison microscope, polarized light microscope, stereo microscope, SEM-EDS, and FTIR. Each technique is described in terms of its functionality, illumination methods, applications, and significance in analyzing materials. The document also includes references for further reading on the subject.

Uploaded by

arthurkuukua75
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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UNIVERSITY OF CAPE COAST

COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL SCIENCES


SCHOOL OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
DEPARTMENT OF FORENSIC SCIENCE

TRACE EVIDENCE
FSC 307A
BS/FSC/22/0015
QUESTION
Discuss the working principles of the following:

1. Comparison Microscope

2. Polarized light microscope

3. Stereo microscope

4. SEM-EDS

5. FTIR
Comparison Microscope
The comparison microscope combines two compound microscopes connected by an
optical bridge, allowing simultaneous side-by-side viewing of two specimens.

Illumination: A light source illuminates both samples, and a beam splitter directs light to each
optical path.
Optical Bridge: This bridge uses mirrors and prisms to align the images from both microscopes
into a single field of view, separated by a dividing line. The left side shows the image from one
microscope, and the right side shows the other.
Independent Adjustments: Users can independently adjust magnification, focus, and lighting for
each sample, ensuring optimal clarity even if the objects differ in size or shape.
Applications: Widely used in forensic science (e.g., comparing bullet striations), document
examination, and art authentication.

Polarized Light Microscope (PLM)


A polarized light microscope examines anisotropic materials by utilizing polarized light.

Polarization: A polarizer filters light into a single vibration plane before it passes through the
sample. An analyser above the sample blocks all light except that which has interacted with the
sample’s structure.
Birefringence: Anisotropic materials split light into two rays with different velocities. These
rays interfere, producing colors or intensity variations that reveal structural details.
Applications: Commonly used in mineralogy, crystallography, and forensic fibre analysis to
identify birefringent materials.

Stereo Microscope
The stereo microscope provides a three-dimensional view of specimens using two optical
paths.

Optical Pathways: Two separate objectives and eyepieces create slightly different angles of the
same object, resulting in depth perception.
Magnification and Depth: It offers low magnification (typically 10x–50x) but excellent depth of
field for observing surface features.
Applications: Used in dissection, circuit board inspection, and quality control for larger objects.

SEM-EDS (Scanning Electron Microscope with Energy Dispersive Xray Spectroscopy)


This system combines SEM imaging with EDS for elemental analysis.

SEM Imaging:
 A focused electron beam scans the sample surface.
 Secondary electrons emitted from the surface are collected to form high-resolution
images of topography.
EDS Analysis:
The electron beam excites atoms in the sample, causing them to emit characteristic X-rays.
An EDS detector identifies these X-rays to determine elemental composition.
: Used in materials science, failure analysis, and nanotechnology for detailed imaging and
composition analysis.

FTIR (Applications Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy)


FTIR identifies molecular structures by analysing infrared absorption.

Infrared Radiation: A broad-spectrum IR source passes through the sample. Molecules absorb
specific wavelengths corresponding to their vibrational modes.
Interferometer: A Michelson interferometer modulates IR light into an interference pattern,
which is converted into an absorption spectrum via Fourier Transform.
Spectrum Analysis: Peaks in the spectrum correspond to molecular bonds or functional groups.
Applications: Used in chemistry, polymer analysis, and forensic science for material
identification and purity assessment.
REFERENCES

Doty, K. C., Muro, C. K., Bueno, J., Halámková, L., & Lednev, I. K. (2015). What can

spectroscopy do for criminalistics? Journal of Raman Spectroscopy, 47(1), 39–50.

https://doi.org/10.1002/jrs.4826

Daimon, H. (2001). Stereoscopic microscopy of atomic arrangement by circularly polarized-light

photoelectron diffraction. Physical Review Letters, 86(10), 2034.

Delly, J. G. (2008). Essentials of polarized light microscopy. Westmont, IL: College of

Microscopy.

Cengiz, S., Karaca, A. C., Çakır, İ., Üner, H. B., & Sevindik, A. (2004). SEM–EDS analysis and

discrimination of forensic soil. Forensic science international, 141(1), 33-37.

Berthomieu, C., & Hienerwadel, R. (2009). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR)

spectroscopy. Photosynthesis research, 101, 157-170.

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