Question

Will Medal & it's Forensic Science Questions.

What are microcrystalline tests? What information do they provide?

What is spectrophotometry? How can this be useful in identifying drugs?

Answer 1

for first question----
Microcrystalline tests involve exposing the substance to a reagent and then examining the color and morphology (including shape) of the crystals that form. It is much more specific than color tests in identifying a particular drug as the size, color, and shape of the crystals will differ for each specific drug.

Answer 2

for second question-----
Different drugs and materials absorb UV and ultraviolet light differently. This provides another way for forensic scientists to examine materials. Like color tests, UV spectrophotometry cannot positively identify a particular drug, as there may be other materials with the drug that could influence the results. However, the test is a very useful one when determining if a drug is present. A spectrophotometry device can emit both UV and infrared light as it measures how a sample either reflects or absorbs the light. Though ultraviolet spectrophotometry cannot positively identify a drug, infrared spectrophotometry can, since the pattern of light is unique to each type of compound.

Answer 3

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