Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence Analysis

Forensic Drug Chemistry and White Powder Identification

In this experiment you will perform a series of tests on some of the white powders commonly encountered in the crime laboratory. You will distinguish each of the powders based upon the differences in physical and chemical properties.

Materials

• baking soda

• table salt

• corn starch

• granulated sugar

• eyedropper

• iodine solution

• vinegar

• water

• measuring spoon set

• black construction paper

• silver or white marking pen

• white cups or small white bowls

• hand magnifier or preferably a pocket microscope

Note:

The eyedropper and iodine solution are readily available in most pharmacies.

The eyedropper must be carefully cleaned prior to performing each different test. The measuring spoons must be cleaned prior to the sampling of each powder.

You will be able to observe the appearance of the powders better with a pocket microscope than with a hand magnifier.

Procedure:

Place ½ teaspoon of each of the four white powders on a separate sheet of black paper.

Test # 1

Take your eyedropper and add a drop or two of warm water on to a portion of each of the powders.

Test # 2

Using your eyedropper, add about 10 to 15 drops of the iodine to about ½ cup of water and stir. The solution should look somewhat like a moderately dark tea beverage. Add ½ teaspoon of each powder to a separate small white bowl or cup. Using your eyedropper, add 1 to 2 drops of the iodine solution to the powders.

Test # 3

Place ½ teaspoon of each powder into a separate bowl or cup. Using the eyedropper, add 1 to 2 drops of the vinegar to the powders.