The versatility of trigonometry as a practical analytical tool is particularly evident in forensic
science, where it plays a crucial role in crime scene analysis and event reconstruction. This study provides
a comprehensive overview of the application of trigonometric principles within various forensic scenarios,
from trajectory analysis and source determination to bloodstain pattern interpretation and facial
reconstruction from skeletal remains.
Central to crime scene reconstruction is the use of trigonometry to discern the dynamics of a crime
through the examination of trajectories, distances, and angles. This paper presents exemplar problems that
depict the determination of fall heights and shooter positions, illustrating the method's investigative power.
Bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA) further demonstrates trigonometry's forensic utility by using impact
angles to reveal critical incident details.
Forensic anthropology benefits from trigonometric analysis for facial reconstruction, ensuring
accurate identification. The paper also explores how trigonometry guides the strategic placement of
surveillance equipment, a factor increasingly crucial in crime prevention and resolution.
In traffic accident forensics, trigonometry aids in estimating vehicle speeds based on skid marks, thereby
informing legal outcomes. Lastly, the paper discusses how trigonometric analysis of fingerprint minutiae
significantly enhances identification processes.
Targeted at preparatory and high school students, the presented problems aim to illustrate the reallife
applications of trigonometry, potentially inspiring interest in mathematics and its use in law
enforcement careers. The synthesis of theoretical and applied mathematics underlines the indispensable
role trigonometry occupies in modern forensic science, evidencing its vital contribution to public safety
and justice.
In conclusion, the paper accentuates trigonometry's substantial impact on forensic science,
emphasizing its indispensability in solving crimes and providing an invaluable resource in the pursuit of
justice.