What is forensic science often referred to as?

Forensic science is often referred to as applied science. This designation emphasizes that forensic science utilizes scientific principles and methods to analyze evidence in the context of legal investigations and criminal justice. The term "applied" signifies that these scientific techniques are not just theoretical but are actively employed to solve real-world problems, particularly in legal situations where evidence needs to be examined to support investigations and court proceedings.

In forensic science, practitioners draw from various scientific disciplines, such as biology, chemistry, and physics, applying them to gather and interpret evidence like fingerprints, DNA, and ballistic traces that can link suspects to crimes, identify victims, or exonerate the innocent. This practical application of science differentiates forensic science from other fields that might focus solely on research or theory without direct relevance to law enforcement or legal contexts.