Remediation-Profiling: DNA, Blood, & Ballistics

Front

What is mitochondrial DNA?

Back

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is the genetic material found in mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells. It is inherited only from the mother and can be used to trace maternal lineage.

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Who shares mitochondrial DNA with you?

Back

Your mother, sisters, and maternal aunts or uncles share mitochondrial DNA with you.

Front

What is a Cast-Off bloodstain pattern?

Back

A Cast-Off bloodstain pattern is created when blood is released or thrown from a blood-bearing object, such as a swinging hammer.

Front

What is Luminol used for in forensic science?

Back

Luminol is used to detect invisible blood stains that have been cleaned up at a crime scene.

Front

What does rifling in a gun barrel do?

Back

Rifling creates grooves in the barrel that cause a bullet to spin, improving its accuracy and creating unique striations for identification.

Front

What is the relationship between shotgun gauge and barrel diameter?

Back

The gauge of a shotgun is inversely related to the diameter of the barrel; a lower gauge number indicates a larger diameter.

Front

What is the purpose of the Kastle-Meyer test?

Back

The Kastle-Meyer test is a presumptive test used to detect the presence of blood.

Front

What is the significance of striations on a bullet?

Back

Striations are unique markings left on a bullet by the rifling of a gun barrel, which can be used to match a bullet to a specific firearm.

Front

What is the Precipitin test used for?

Back

The Precipitin test is used to determine whether a blood sample is of human or animal origin.

Front

What is the difference between a blood spatter and a blood stain?

Back

A blood spatter is a pattern created by the force of blood impacting a surface, while a blood stain is a mark left by blood that has dried.