Forensics: Fiber Review

The most common type of regenerated fiber, which is derived from cellulose and is mostly plant in origin, is rayon.

• True

• False

Synthetic polymer fibers, which all originate with petroleum products, are cellulose-based fibers.

• True

• False

Polyester has properties similar to nylon except it is easily broken down by light and concentrated acid.

• True

• False

A disadvantage of manufactured fibers is that they can deteriorate in bright sunlight and melt at a lower temperature than natural fibers.

• True

• False

Fibers are woven into textiles or fabrics.

• True

• False

Fibers that have been spun together are called:

• textile.

• yarn.

• mineral fiber.

• a fiber.

A small molecule that may bond to other monomers to become a polymer is a:

• monomer.

• polymer.

• fiber.

• None of these choices.

When fibers are transferred directly from victim to suspect or suspect to victim, this is called:

• necessary transfer.

• absolute transfer.

• direct transfer.

• None of these choices.

The transfer of evidence such as a fiber from a source to a person, then to another person, is called:

• primary transfer.

• secondary transfer.

• tertiary transfer.

• direct transfer.

Early collection of fibers in an investigation is critical. Within 24 hours, an estimated ______ percent of all fibers may have fallen from a victim or been lost from a crime scene.

• 65

• 75

• 85

• 95