Hair Analysis Practice Flashcard

Front

What is one of the physical characteristics of hair that provides class evidence?

Back

Its tough outer coating.

Front

What significant tool was first used in the 1900s for hair analysis?

Back

Comparison microscope.

Front

What is one limitation of using hair as evidence in forensic investigations?

Back

It may be a secondary transfer.

Front

What can hairs without a root or follicle reveal?

Back

Family relationships.

Front

What type of DNA is found in hairs without a root or follicle?

Back

Mitochondrial DNA.

Front

Define class evidence in the context of forensic hair analysis.

Back

Class evidence refers to material that can be associated with a group rather than a single source.

Front

What is the role of the cuticle in hair structure?

Back

The cuticle is the tough outer layer that protects the inner layers of the hair.

Front

Explain the difference between nuclear DNA and mitochondrial DNA.

Back

Nuclear DNA is inherited from both parents and can identify individuals, while mitochondrial DNA is inherited only from the mother and can indicate maternal lineage.

Front

What is the significance of the comparison microscope in hair analysis?

Back

It allows forensic scientists to compare two hair samples side by side for similarities and differences.

Front

What does the presence of a hair follicle indicate?

Back

The presence of a hair follicle indicates that the hair was forcibly removed and can provide nuclear DNA.