ETC Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the ETC exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 ETC Exam Format at a Glance
📚 ETC Topics to Study (22)
✍️ Sample ETC Questions & Answers
1. Cyanoacrylate (superglue) fuming is primarily used to develop latent prints on which type of surface?
Cyanoacrylate fuming causes superglue vapors to polymerize on the amino acids, fatty acids, and proteins in latent print residue on non-porous surfaces.
2. How should trace evidence such as loose fibers or hair be packaged at the crime scene to prevent loss?
Paper envelopes and druggist folds allow moisture to escape (preventing mold) while securely containing small loose particles without static buildup that plastic bags can cause.
3. Paint transfer evidence from a hit-and-run scene is best characterized using which combination of analytical methods?
FTIR identifies the organic binder and pigment chemistry of paint layers, while SEM-EDX provides elemental composition of inorganic pigments, together allowing detailed layer-by-layer comparisons.
4. Which reagent is used as a presumptive test for blood that produces a luminescent reaction?
Luminol reacts with the iron in hemoglobin to produce chemiluminescence, allowing detection of blood even when diluted or cleaned.
5. Which powder is preferred for developing latent prints on dark, non-porous surfaces?
Light-colored powders provide the necessary contrast to visualize latent prints on dark non-porous surfaces.
6. Why is proper evidence storage crucial?
Proper evidence storage is crucial for protecting the physical and forensic integrity of items over time. Storing evidence in appropriate conditions (e.g., climate-controlled, secure) prevents degradation, contamination, or loss. This ensures its continued reliability and admissibility in court, maintaining its value throughout the legal process.