Fingerprint Flashcards
What are the three main patterns of fingerprints?
The three main patterns of fingerprints are arches, loops, and whorls.
- 65% of the population has loop fingerprints.
- 30% of the population has whorl fingerprints.
- 5% of the population has arch fingerprints.
What is the difference between a simple arch and a tented arch?
A simple arch has a smooth, wave-like pattern, while a tented arch has a more pointed or steep rise in the center.
What is a radial loop and ulnar loop in fingerprint patterns?
- radial loop is a loop pattern where the ridges flow toward the thumb side of the hand.
- ulnar loop is a loop pattern where the ridges flow toward the little finger side of the hand.
What are the characteristics of a whorl fingerprint?
whorl fingerprint has at least one ridge that makes a complete circuit, and it typically has two deltas and a core.
What is a double loop in fingerprint patterns?
double loop is a type of whorl pattern that consists of two separate loop formations.
What is an accidental whorl?
An accidental whorl is a whorl pattern that does not fit into the standard categories of plain, central pocket, or double loop whorls.
What are some common ridge characteristics in fingerprints?
Ridge ending, Short ridge, Bifurcation, Lake, Trifurcation, Hook, Bridge, Double bifurcation, Ridge crossing
What are the three main types of fingerprints that can be found at a crime scene?
patent, plastic, and latent.
What is a patent fingerprint?
patent fingerprint is a visible fingerprint made by a hand that has come into contact with a substance like blood, grease, or ink.
What is a plastic fingerprint?
plastic fingerprint is a visible fingerprint made when an impression is left in a soft material like clay, wax, or putty.
What is a latent fingerprint?
A latent fingerprint is an invisible fingerprint that requires chemical or physical methods to be made visible.
What are the three main tests used to develop latent fingerprints?
powder test, chemical test, and light test.
What is the powder test used for in fingerprint analysis?
powder test is used to develop latent fingerprints on non-porous surfaces by applying fine powder that adheres to the moisture and oils in the print.
What is the iodine fuming method in fingerprint analysis?
iodine fuming method uses iodine vapors to react with natural oils and fats in latent fingerprints, producing a temporary yellow-brown color.
What is the ninhydrin test used for in fingerprint analysis?
ninhydrin test reacts with amino acids in sweat to produce a purple color, making latent fingerprints visible on porous surfaces like paper.
What is the cyanoacrylate (super glue) fuming method used for in fingerprint analysis?
cyanoacrylate fuming method uses super glue fumes to react with moisture and other components in latent fingerprints, forming a white deposit on non-porous surfaces.
What is the light test used for in fingerprint analysis?
light test uses lasers or alternative light sources to cause substances in latent fingerprints to fluoresce, making them visible.
How many points of comparison are typically needed to declare a fingerprint match?
8-12 points of comparison are needed to declare a fingerprint match.
What are Level 1, 2, 3 features in fingerprint analysis?
- Level 1 features include the overall pattern and ridge flow of the fingerprint, such as loops, whorls, and arches.
- Level 2 features include finer details like ridge endings, bifurcations, and other minutiae points.
- Level 3 features include microscopic details such as sweat pores, ridge contours, and scars.
What is the significance of sweat pores in fingerprint analysis?
Sweat pores are unique to each individual and can be used for identification, especially when combined with Level 1 and Level 2 features.
What is the ridge count in fingerprint analysis?
ridge count is the number of ridges between the delta (triangular region) and the core of the fingerprint, used to classify and compare fingerprints.
