Apr 16, 2024  
2017-2018 Official General Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Official General Catalog [Archived Catalog]

CHM 290 - Forensic Toxicology


Application of the principles of forensic toxicology and the related forensic sciences within the scope of medical-legal investigation.  Drug and poison analysis, examination of physical evidence and death investigation.  Laboratory sessions will provide basic knowledge of forensic analysis utilizing microscopy, gas chromatography, thin layer chromatography and spectroscopy.

Prerequisite- Corequisite
Prerequisite:  CHM 120 Fundamental Chemistry or CHM 145 General Chemistry I or permission of department

Credits: 3
Hours
2 Class Hours, 2 Laboratory Hours
Course Profile
Learning Outcomes of the Course:

Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:

1.  Understand the role of poisons and drugs in the human body.
2.  Understand the use of the gas chromatograph.
3.  Determine the presence of drugs or poisons in body tissues, organs, or fluids.
4.  Perform basic algebraic manipulations to relative to simple chemical calculations.
5.  Perform mathematical manipulations such as unit analysis with proper attention to units and significant figures.
6.  Use the concept of the mole in quantitative chemical calculations.
7.  Balance chemical equations.
8.  Calculate amounts of chemicals involved in poisonings and LD 50.
9.  Calculate and utilize solution concentration units such as molarity.
10.  Classify poisons and drugs.
11.  Use concepts of pH in acidic and basic solutions.
12.  Understand the use of the mass spectrometer.
13.  Understand the ideal gas law and its application in poisonous gases.
14.  Understand the use of liquid chromatography.

Methods of Assessing Outcomes:

The expected learning outcome will be assessed through the use of homework assignments and/or quizzes, chapter exams, and the final exam.