Ink Analysis
Learning Intention: Define what is chromatography and how it can be used to identity a pen used in a piece of evidence.
Success Criteria
4. I can conduct an experiment to analyse ink and paper samples and conclude which pen and paper was used.
Learning Tasks
The ink analysis is just one part of Clue #1 - Threating Note to Mr Burns. The other things that can be analyzed are handwriting and paper type.
Mr Burns got this threatening note and we're trying to figure out who sent it. One of the ways to do that, is by identify which pen was used to write the note.
Have a read on how to analyze the pens using chromatography.
Complete the chromatography experiment. Note that the pens came from the following people.
A = Lisa's Pen
B = Homer's Pen
C = Skinner's Pen
D = Smither's Pen
Listen to the notes Ms Garlick gives on chromotography. You can also read these slides if you missed the explanation.
Compare your results to the ink analysis evidence. Then draw conclusions in your detective book. You should think about want the other related analysis to this clue can tell us (handwriting and paper) and if it's a useful clue in solving who tried to murder Mr Burns.
Homework
Email Ms Garlick the answer to the following question.
What are some modern examples of lab techniques that use chromatography? (Fun fact, Ms Garlick used it during her masters project.)
Back to the main list of forensic and investigation activities
Teacher Notes
The chromatography experiment does take a bit of time for the solvent to travel up the paper, so it is recommended that you look as another forensic or investigative activity while you wait.