Daphne is investigating a crime scene where a body was found inside a truck that belongs to a construction company. The body doesn’t appear to have any visible wounds, so one avenue she wants to pursue is whether it might be a drug overdose. Officers found traces of a white powder on the steering wheel. What’s the BEST way for Daphne to tell if it’s a drug or drywall dust?
A.
perform a chemical analysis
B.
taste it
C.
shine a black light on it
D.
soak it in water
A. perform a chemical analysis
What is the BEST display of Newton’s Third Law of Motion on a playground?
A.
a dad yelling to his kids across the playground
B.
a little boy going down the slide
C.
a mom pushing her daughter on a swing
D.
a kid falling off his bike
C. a mom pushing her daughter on a swing
The best way for Daphne to determine if the white powder found on the steering wheel is a drug or drywall dust is to perform a chemical analysis (option A). This method involves utilizing specialized laboratory equipment and techniques to identify and analyze the composition of the substance.
To perform a chemical analysis, Daphne could follow these steps:
1. Collect a sample: Daphne should carefully collect a small portion of the white powder using a clean, sterile instrument such as tweezers or a clean plastic spoon. It is important to avoid contaminating the sample to ensure accurate results.
2. Obtain appropriate testing equipment: Daphne will need to use specialized equipment commonly found in laboratories, such as a spectrophotometer, chromatography system, or mass spectrometer. These tools allow for the identification and quantification of different substances.
3. Choose a testing method: There are several methods Daphne can employ for drug identification, including spectroscopy, chromatography, or chemical spot tests. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, so Daphne can consult with experts or utilize standard protocols for drug analysis.
4. Perform the analysis: Daphne should carefully follow the specific instructions provided for the chosen test method. This may involve preparing the sample, running it through the equipment, and interpreting the results. It is important to adhere to safety protocols and wear appropriate protective gear during the analysis.
5. Compare results: Daphne should compare the test results against known reference samples or databases to identify the presence of drugs or any other substances. It is critical to ensure that the results are accurate and reliable.
By following this scientific approach, Daphne can obtain a conclusive answer regarding whether the white powder is a drug or drywall dust. This method is preferred over other options like tasting it (option B), which is potentially dangerous, shining a black light on it (option C), which may provide limited information, or soaking it in water (option D), which may not yield accurate results.