Forensic Hair Analysis Concepts

The video tutorial explores the forensic examination of hair, highlighting its role as physical evidence in crime investigations. It discusses the structure of hair, including the cuticle, cortex, and medulla, and their significance in species identification. The tutorial also covers DNA analysis, hair growth phases, and microscopic examination techniques. Additionally, it explains the use of mitochondrial DNA in hair analysis and the importance of proper hair sampling methods.

What is the primary limitation of using hair morphology in forensic investigations?

• It cannot identify the species of the hair.

• It cannot determine the age of an individual.

• It cannot individualize a human hair.

• It cannot determine the color of the hair.

Which layer of the hair shaft is responsible for its resistance to chemical decomposition?

• Follicle

• Cuticle

• Cortex

• Medulla

What is the main function of the cortex in the hair shaft?

• To support hair growth

• To protect the hair from damage

• To provide color to the hair

• To connect the hair to the follicle

How is the medullary index expressed?

• As a percentage

• As a ratio

• As a decimal

• As a fraction

In which phase is the hair root attached to the follicle for continued growth?

• Dormant phase

• Anagen phase

• Catagen phase

• Telogen phase

What is the richest source of DNA in a hair sample?

• The cortex

• The cuticle

• The medulla

• The follicular tag

What type of DNA is found in larger quantities in hair cells?

• Cytoplasmic DNA

• Nuclear DNA

• Mitochondrial DNA

• Chromosomal DNA

Why can't mitochondrial DNA distinguish between maternally related individuals?

• It is less stable than nuclear DNA.

• It is only transmitted from mother to child.

• It is not present in all hair samples.

• It is only found in the hair shaft.

What is the purpose of collecting 50 full-length hairs from the scalp?

• To ensure a representative sampling of head hair

• To identify the age of the individual

• To determine the hair color

• To analyze the hair's chemical composition

What feature is particularly important in distinguishing human hair from animal hair?

• Hair length

• Medullary index

• Hair color

• Hair texture