What methodology is used in forensic geology?

Forensic geology primarily relies on the scientific analysis of soil and mineral evidence to establish connections between suspects or objects and specific crime scenes. This methodology involves examining physical evidence found at crime sites, such as soil compositions, mineral types, and other geological materials, to provide insights into where a suspect may have been or what objects may have been involved in a crime.

By comparing the soil or mineral samples collected from a crime scene with those taken from a suspect or object, forensic geologists can assist investigators in linking individuals to locations, thus providing valuable evidence in criminal cases. This process often includes techniques such as microscopy, chemical analysis, and the study of sediment layers.

The other choices involve practices relevant to investigative processes but do not specifically pertain to the unique focus of forensic geology. Conducting interviews with local residents, assessing crime scene conditions, and managing evidence chain of custody are important parts of forensic science and investigation, but they are not specific to the geological aspect that defines forensic geology.