Trace Evidence
Perhaps in no other type of forensic discipline is Locard’s exchange principle more evident or essential. Trace evidence can be anything. The transferred evidence is often microscopic, adding to the analysis challenge. Not surprisingly, microscopy is critical in trace evidence analysis so we will learn a little about basic microscopy. We will look at paint, fibers, glass, and gunshot residue, but these are just a few examples of the variety of trace evidence.
Learning Objectives
19.1 Recognize the basic microscope types and how they operate
19.2 Appreciate the basics of polarizing light microscopy and its forensic applications
19.3 List the types of analytical methods used to categorize and characterize glass and how the results are interpreted
19.4 List the types of analytical methods used to categorize and characterize fibers and how the results are interpreted
19.5 List the types of analytical methods used to categorize and characterize paint and how the results are interpreted
19.6 Describe the mechanism of formation of inorganic gunshot residue
