Gunshot Residue

Question 1

During a firearm discharge, an significant amount burned and unburned residue is discharged along with the bullet. These residues eject from the barrel, cylinder gap in revolvers and during ejection of cartridges in pistols. Gunshot residue (GSR) trace amounts of the following elements:

Answer 1

• Antimony, barium and lead

Question 2

In the past, ______and neutron activation were the primary methods of evaluating whether antimony, barium and lead were present on individuals involved in shooting incidents.

Answer 2

• Atomic Absorption Analysis (AAA)

Question 3

Crime scene technicians would routinely_____hands of victims and suspects who were believed to have fired a weapons and submit them for subsequent analysis.

Answer 3

• Swab

Question 4

In GSR testing, ______positive results were a common occurrence due to antimony, barium and lead being found from other circumstances.

Answer 4

• False

Question 5

The presence of GSR indicated the person was:

Answer 5

• In the vicinity of a firearms discharge and the presence of GSR
  did not effectively place a firearm in the hands of the suspect.

Question 6

_______evaluations are not typically utilized in the United States.

Answer 6

• Atomic Absorption Analysis (AAA)

Question 7

Evaluation of GSR residues is possible with:

Answer 7

• Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)
• The analyst checks for antimony, barium and lead independently
• SEM seeks unique fused particles with all 3 elements
• Elements will occur as a single particle in gunshot residues

Question 8

GSR particles are not easily observed, the crime scene technician may have to conduct______test on clothing, bedding and objects for examination by the crime laboratory.

Answer 8

• Nitrate