Savitribai Phule Pune University

CHM505- Forensic Science and Technology

Internal Test-1
Saturday 13 Nov. 2021 Marks: 10

Q. 1 A case of suicide involving a 29-year-old male who detonated a firework in his mouth
was reported. He was discovered in his residence shortly after the explosion. Initially, the case
was believed to be a fatal gunshot wound by the paramedics and homicide detectives at the
scene. Several small pieces of red colored paper and a possible end cap were located throughout
the scene. Analysis of the paper and end cap showed trace components consistent with shiny
powder which gave lavender flash on ignition. A series of qualitative and semiquantitative tests
were carried out in the lab. The analyst reported cylindrical granules and evolution of small
bubbles after addition of dil. Hcl to the powder when observed under microscope. The filtrate
collected after hot water treatment was analysed further. Addition of aniline to the filtrate gave
blue ring and the ttreatment with the mixture of 0.2% naphthylethylenediamine and 2%
sulphanilamide in 5% phosphoric acid led to formation of a brown ring. Heating of the debris
collected from the scene gave the smell of rotten eggs and addition of silver nitrate to the filtrate
gave yellow precipitate.

Identify the components used for construction of the explosive firework used by the victim.
Also suggest any spectroscopic techniques that can support the identities of some of the
components identified by qualitative analysis to prove in the court of justice.

Answer -