Forensic Pedology

What is Soil?

• Soil is a mixture of minerals, organic matter, water, and air.

• No two locations have the same soil.

• Forensic scientists can use soil to link criminals, victims, or evidence to a specific place.

Organic matter that may be found in soil include: decomposed plants, animal remains, microorganisms, seeds, worms and their eggs, manure, and even ash from nearby fires.

What makes soil unique?

The following characteristics of soil can vary between locations:

• Colour

• Texture

• pH level

• Presence of organic matter

• Layers

In groups, you are going to collect soil samples from three locations around the school. You will need to choose the locations, collect your samples, make a chain of custody, and analyse your samples.

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Time for your own soil analysis