Identification 1 Flashcards
Abutment
One ridge meeting another ridge at an angle that cannot be construed to be a
bifurcation.
Appendage
A non specific attachment to the outer edge of a recurving ridge above the shoulder.
Bifurcation
The point where one ridge divides into two ridges.
Bridge
A short ridge that goes between and connects two ridges. Also known as a crossover.
Carpal delta
Area of the palm containing a delta formation nearest the wrist.
Characteristic
Distinctive aspects within friction ridges used for analysis, comparison and
identification. Also called ‘Features’.
Core
Central area of the pattern that contains the inner terminus and the innermost
recurve.
Crossover
Two ridges that cross each other forming an ‘X” where they meet. (See also
‘Bridge’.)
Cuspal patterns
Rare genetic disorder where friction ridges in the fingerprint pattern area flow from
base to tip of the finger, and there is no defined pattern formation.
Delta
Triangular or triradii area of the pattern that contains the outer terminus and the type
lines.
Distal
The farthest area from the centre or point of attachment.
Dissociation
Formation of individual pore elements that fail to merge into continuous friction
ridges. Can cover the whole fingerprint but mostly localised in small portions.
Dot
The impression of the flesh surrounding one pore.
Dysplasia
Incomplete development of friction ridges, resulting in a patternless surface.
Enclosure
The area contained when a ridge divides into two ridges and then rejoins to form one
ridge again. Also called ‘a Lake’.
Focal Points
A group of specific features used to limit search parameters. Focal points may
include a delta, core, creases, scars, or the flow of friction ridge detail (as with a
recurve). Focal points may be used for searching but not necessarily be used in
arriving at a conclusion during the comparison process.
Hypothenar
Large cushion area of the palmar region at the base of the little finger.
Incipient Ridge
A ridge not fully formed. Not included in ridge counts. Have no sweat glands
(therefore no pores) present within structure. Also called ‘interpapillary lines’,
‘rudimentary ridges’ or ‘nascent ridges’.
Island
Short independent ridge the length of which must be at least twice its width.
Matrix
The substance that is deposited or removed by the friction ridge skin when making
an impression.