Forensics Semester 1 Exam Review

Front

What is direct evidence?

Back

Direct evidence is evidence that directly links a suspect to a crime, such as eyewitness testimony, surveillance video, or a confession. It does not require any inference to connect it to the fact in question.

Front

Which of the following is NOT an example of direct evidence?

Back

Compatible blood type is NOT an example of direct evidence.

Front

How do you determine if a hair is from an animal or human?

Back

To determine if a hair is from an animal or human, divide the diameter of the medulla by the entire hair.

Front

What are the types of medullas commonly found in human hair?

Back

Common types of medullas in human hair include absent, interrupted, and fragmented. Continuous medullas are NOT commonly found in human hair.

Front

What is a fingerprint pattern that originates on one side and exits the other?

Back

An arch is a fingerprint pattern that originates on one side and exits the other.

Front

What is the most common fingerprint pattern that resembles hairpins or staples?

Back

The most common fingerprint pattern that resembles hairpins or staples is the ulnar loop.

Front

Define 'medulla' in the context of hair analysis.

Back

The medulla is the central core of a hair strand, which can vary in thickness and appearance and is used to help identify whether a hair is human or animal.

Front

What is the significance of the cortex in hair analysis?

Back

The cortex is the middle layer of the hair that contains pigment and is crucial for determining the color and characteristics of the hair.

Front

What is the difference between a whorl and a loop in fingerprint patterns?

Back

A whorl is a fingerprint pattern that makes a complete circuit, while a loop enters from one side and exits on the same side.

Front

What is the role of forensic evidence in criminal investigations?

Back

Forensic evidence plays a critical role in criminal investigations by providing scientific analysis that can link suspects to crimes or exonerate the innocent.