What is forensic science?

Forensic science is defined as the application of scientific principles and techniques to solve crimes and analyze evidence. This field combines various areas of science, including biology, chemistry, and physics, with law enforcement practices to objectively investigate and resolve criminal cases. For instance, forensic scientists gather and analyze physical evidence from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, blood samples, and materials, to provide crucial information that can lead to the identification of suspects, establish timelines, or corroborate witness statements.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of crime or law. The study of legal systems and laws encompasses legal theory and statutory interpretation rather than the scientific analysis of evidence. The analysis of psychological behavior pertains to criminology and understanding criminal motives, which, while important, does not involve the direct application of scientific methods to physical evidence. The investigation of financial crimes relates specifically to fraud and white-collar offenses, emphasizing financial forensics rather than the broader application of science across all types of criminal investigations.