What does toxicology study?

Toxicology is the scientific study of the effects of poisons and chemicals on living organisms. It examines how these substances interact with biological systems, including the mechanisms of their toxic effects and the symptoms they produce. Toxicologists analyze the presence of drugs, alcohol, environmental pollutants, and other toxic substances in biological samples such as blood and urine, to determine their impact on health and behavior. This field is crucial in various areas, including forensic science, where toxicology can provide evidence in criminal cases by revealing whether a victim or suspect was under the influence of a harmful substance.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of criminal justice that do not directly relate to the study of poisons or toxic substances. For example, the study of criminal behavior involves psychological and sociological perspectives rather than the chemical interactions central to toxicology. Techniques of crime scene investigation pertain to the collection and processing of evidence, which is a distinct area of forensic science. Documentation methods in law enforcement are focused on maintaining accurate records and does not overlap with the biological and chemical analysis intrinsic to toxicology. Thus, the correct answer captures the essence of what toxicology fundamentally addresses.