Arson and Fire Investigation

The evaluation of physical evidence recovered from fire scenes is considered part of forensic chemistry. In addition to laboratory analysis, fire investigation also incorporates elements of forensic engineering and crime scene analysis. In most states, fire investigation falls under the jurisdiction of a fire marshal’s office, which is tasked with safety and investigation authority. Heat is a necessary ingredient because it drives evaporation of components of fuel into the gas phase where they can burn. Once a fire is established, the heat needed comes from the reaction itself, but some form of energy is needed to start the combustion process. The fire triangle shows what must be present for fires to occur and continue. Suppose a natural gas leak is occurring in an enclosed basement room that is relatively airtight. For ease of example, assume that the space has a volume of 100 cubic feet.