Science + Art Saturday: Assume or Presume: The Use of Presumptive Testing in Forensic Chemistry

"Assume or Presume: The Use of Presumptive Testing in Forensic Chemistry"

Often in forensic work there is a need for a quick and simple test in the field to determine if a substance is a cause for concern (or arrest!).  Using simple, over the counter medications as examples, we will look at the chemical basis for some tests, then use them in the lab to identify an unknown white powder.

Ann Fabirkiewicz, Charles A Dana Professor of Chemistry