Essential Mathematics and Statistics for Forensic Science (PDF)

This text is an accessible, student-friendly introduction to the
wide range of mathematical and statistical tools needed by the
forensic scientist in the analysis, interpretation and presentation
of experimental measurements.

From a basis of high school mathematics, the book develops
essential quantitative analysis techniques within the context of a
broad range of forensic applications. This clearly structured text
focuses on developing core mathematical skills together with an
understanding of the calculations associated with the analysis of
experimental work, including an emphasis on the use of graphs and
the evaluation of uncertainties. Through a broad study of
probability and statistics, the reader is led ultimately to the use
of Bayesian approaches to the evaluation of evidence within the
court. In every section, forensic applications such as ballistics
trajectories, post-mortem cooling, aspects of forensic
pharmacokinetics, the matching of glass evidence, the formation of
bloodstains and the interpretation of DNA profiles are discussed
and examples of calculations are worked through. In every chapter
there are numerous self-assessment problems to aid student
learning.

Its broad scope and forensically focused coverage make this book
an essential text for students embarking on any degree course in
forensic science or forensic analysis, as well as an invaluable
reference for post-graduate students and forensic
professionals.

Key features:

* Offers a unique mix of mathematics and statistics topics,
specifically tailored to a forensic science undergraduate
degree.

* All topics illustrated with examples from the forensic science
discipline.

* Written in an accessible, student-friendly way to engage
interest and enhance learning and confidence.

* Assumes only a basic high-school level prior mathematical
knowledge.