extra credit-TV: Monk

In the latest episode of Monk, Leland, Adrian and Randy are assigned a case (before Leland's wedding) to find out who and why a man was burned. When they arrived at the scene, it was pretty obvious why they were burned: so the identity of the person was hidden. The only thing left was a boot, empty of fingerprints. However, looking for fingerprints is clearly not the only way to solve a mystery. Adrian somehow noticed the tiniest piece of green Styrofoam on the bottom of the boot. The kind of Styrofoam used in flower shops. In addition, a cut thorn was pressed against the rubber sole. the thorn was said to be cut due to the smooth edges of its trim. Even without doing a scientific observation with goggles and chemicals, evidence was found. And so that evidence lead to more. Randy and Adrian headed to florists in search of the mans job. The shop with a worker in which has been missing for days was concluded the one the man worked at. The crazy owner let him work there without filling out papers but fingerprints were found in his work station. As i watch my detective show and notice how the characters find even just the littlest bit of evidence somewhere, it reminds me of what i am often reminded of as "science is everywhere." What is meant to be mysterious and funny entertainment has helped me consider and understand science better. Similar to how one piece of evidence lead to another, one unit of science would relate to a second. Plus, it made me realize how important observation skills are. And so, the bridesmaid tricked the florists; shot and burned him, attempted to separate the bride and groom, pointed a gun at the best man and ended up in jail. Just another case for Adrian Monk.