BSFS Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology

Question 1

Which analytical technique is most commonly used in forensic labs to identify unknown substances by separating and detecting components in a sample?

Accepted Answer

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)

Answer

GC-MS is the gold standard for forensic substance identification because it combines separation power with definitive molecular identification.

Question 2

In forensic toxicology, which specimen is preferred for detecting long-term drug use history over several months?

Accepted Answer

Hair

Answer

Hair retains drug metabolites incorporated during growth, allowing detection of drug use for up to 90 days or longer depending on hair length.

Question 3

The presumptive color test that turns purple/blue in the presence of opioids is known as the:

Accepted Answer

Marquis test

Answer

The Marquis reagent reacts with opioids to produce a characteristic purple-to-blue color, serving as a rapid field presumptive test.

Question 4

Which term describes the process by which the body eliminates a drug, typically through metabolism and excretion?

Accepted Answer

Elimination

Answer

Elimination refers to the combined processes of drug metabolism and excretion that remove a substance from the body.

Question 5

In arson investigation, which chemical class of accelerants is most commonly detected using GC-MS?

Accepted Answer

Petroleum distillates

Answer

Petroleum distillates such as gasoline, kerosene, and lighter fluid are the most frequently encountered accelerants in arson cases and are reliably detected by GC-MS.

BSFS - Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science Practice Test

BSFS - Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science Practice Test

BSFS Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology