Arson Investigation review

Part A: Match the term to the correct definition.

1. ___The
F rapid combination of oxygen and other
substances, accompanied by production of heat A. Accelerant
and light. B. Arson
2. ___A
G chemical reaction in which heat energy is C. Hydrocarbon
released D. Substrate control
3. ___The
B intentional setting of a fire E. Oxidation
4. ___The
E combination of oxygen with other F. Combustion
substances to produce new substances. G. Exothermic reaction
5. ___A
A material used to start or sustain a fire
H. Point of origin
6. ___The
H initial starting location of a fire
I. Pyrolysis
7. ___Any
C compound consisting of only carbon and
hydrogen J. Flammability
J
8. ___The ability of a substance to ignite
9. ___The
I decomposition of organic matter by
heat in the absence of oxygen
10. ___A
D similar, but uncontaminated sample used
for making comparisons.
Part B: Choose the BEST answer.
11. If combustion is to be initiated and sustained, all of the following elements must be present
except
a. The presence of a fuel
b. The availability of oxygen
c. The application of heat
d. The absence of carbon monoxide

12. Most arsons are committed with the intentions of ___.

a. Murder
b. Insurance money collection
c. Crime concealment
d. Pleasure ©The Trendy Science Teacher 2019
 13. A search of the fire scene begins with
a. Collection of accelerants
b. Looking for witnesses
c. Questioning suspects
d. Looking for point of origin

14. Which is NOT a role of an arson investigator?

a. Collect evidence
b. Identify accelerants
c. Scene recreations
d. Extinguishing fires

Part C: Answer each question below.

15. List 3 indications that might lead investigators to believe that an arson crime is committed.
burn pattern, missing items, evidence of multiple sites of ignition

16. What potential problems do arson investigators face at a fire scene?

the destruction of evidence, safety dangers, and complex legal issues.

17. Name two factors that might influence the speed/burn rate of a fire.
fuel load, fuel moisture

18. Why can’t arson evidence be collected in bags?

to avoid losing possible residues through evaporation.

19. What are some common accelerants used in arson crimes?

gasoline (petroleum), diesel fuel, kerosene, turpentine, butane, and various other flammable solvents
collectively known as volatile organic compounds.

20. List 3 ways that investigators identify accelerants.

Sniffing dogs, Hydrocarbon detectors, Gas Chromatography, and Trained K-9's.

©The Trendy Science Teacher 2019