Microchemistry

Abstract Microchemistry is the application of chemical tests to characterize and identify small quantities of material using a compound microscope. Microchemistry involves the formation of characteristic crystals that can be identified. The chemical tests are performed on a microscope slide, and are simple, inexpensive, and rapid. Qualitative analysis of anions, cations, and functional groups can be performed on microscopic samples, the results of which can be used as an adjunct to instrumental methods. Microchemical tests are performed in many disciplines of forensic science including microanalysis, serology, and drug chemistry.