Types of Evidence

Front

What is physical evidence?

Back

Physical evidence refers to tangible items that can be collected and analyzed in a forensic investigation, such as fingerprints, fibers, soil, and tool marks.

Front

What is testimonial evidence?

Back

Testimonial evidence is information provided by witnesses or individuals who testify about what they saw, heard, or experienced related to a crime.

Front

What is the difference between individual evidence and class evidence?

Back

Individual evidence can be linked to a specific source, while class evidence can only be associated with a group of items that share similar characteristics.

Front

What is a known or control sample?

Back

A known or control sample is a sample collected from a known source, such as a suspect or victim, used for comparison with evidence found at a crime scene.

Front

Why is individual evidence considered to have more probative value than class evidence?

Back

Individual evidence is more specific and can directly link a suspect to a crime, while class evidence only narrows down possibilities.

Front

What is the significance of blood typing in forensic science?

Back

Blood typing is used to categorize blood into groups (A, B, AB, O) but is considered class evidence, as it cannot uniquely identify an individual.

Front

What are some examples of physical evidence?

Back

Examples of physical evidence include fingerprints, hair, fibers, soil, tool marks, and weapons.

Front

What is the role of forensic scientists in relation to evidence?

Back

Forensic scientists analyze physical evidence collected from crime scenes to help establish facts and support investigations.

Front

What does it mean for evidence to have probative value?

Back

Probative value refers to the ability of evidence to prove something relevant in a court of law.

Front

Can testimonial evidence be considered reliable?

Back

Testimonial evidence can be less reliable than physical evidence due to factors like memory distortion and bias.