ETC ETC Fingerprint & Biometric Evidence

Question 1

What are the three fundamental fingerprint pattern types recognized in classification systems?

Accepted Answer

Loops, whorls, and arches

Answer

Ridges, valleys, and deltas

Answer

Tented arches, plain whorls, and accidentals

Answer

Radial loops, ulnar loops, and composites

Question 2

Which powder is preferred for developing latent prints on dark, non-porous surfaces?

Accepted Answer

White or light-colored powder (e.g., titanium dioxide)

Answer

Black powder (e.g., carbon or graphite)

Answer

Fluorescent powder under alternate light source

Answer

Magnetic powder for rough surfaces

Question 3

What does AFIS stand for and what is its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Automated Fingerprint Identification System — it electronically searches fingerprint databases for matches

Answer

Advanced Forensic Intelligence System — it stores DNA profiles

Answer

Automated File Indexing System — it catalogs crime scene photos

Answer

Analog Fingerprint Imaging Software — it scans paper cards

Question 4

Cyanoacrylate (superglue) fuming is primarily used to develop latent prints on which type of surface?

Accepted Answer

Non-porous surfaces such as plastic, glass, and metal

Answer

Porous surfaces such as paper and cardboard

Answer

Rough concrete or brick surfaces

Answer

Fabric and clothing materials

Question 5

What is a minutiae point in fingerprint analysis?

Accepted Answer

A specific ridge characteristic such as a ridge ending or bifurcation used for comparison

Answer

The center point of a fingerprint whorl

Answer

The overall pattern classification of a fingerprint

Answer

A smudge or distortion that obscures ridge detail

Question 6

When lifting a developed latent fingerprint with tape, what should be done immediately after lifting?

Accepted Answer

Place the tape on a contrasting backing card and label with case information

Answer

Submit the tape directly to the lab without further processing

Answer

Photograph the tape under UV light before backing it

Answer

Apply a second layer of tape for protection