Forensic Hair and Fiber Examination

What is the outermost covering of the body?

What is the name of the innermost portion of the hair that contains the pigment?

What are the three main structural components of the hair?

The cuticle of a hair is scale-like in appearance.

Which of the following can be determined from a human hair sample?

A microscopic examination is typically conducted first to determine if the hair sample is of human or animal origin.

What is the specific method used to examine evidence using ultraviolet light?

The use of a UV lamp requires a darkroom for proper examination.

What is the method used to compare paint specimens in forensic analysis?

What is the name of the technique used in number restoration that involves the application of a chemical solution?

Which of the following is a type of number used in serial number analysis?

The serial number on an object can be used to identify the manufacturer or origin of the material.

What is the main purpose of a liquor test?

The presence of alcohol in the blood might be considered an aggravating factor in a crime, depending on the circumstances.

Hair Examination

Hair covers most body parts, excluding palms and soles
Microscopic examination determines if hair is human or animal
If human, the race, body area, removal method (natural/forced), cutting tool (dull/sharp/crushed/burned), and potential age and sex can be determined.

Structural Parts of Hair

Inner Aspect
- Cuticle: outermost, scale-like layer
- Cortex: inner layer containing pigment
- Medulla: central canal
Outer Aspect
- Tip: distal end
- Shaft: portion above skull
- Root: embedded in skin

Ultraviolet Examination

UV light (wavelengths 10-400 nm)
Used in scientific examination of evidence
A darkroom and UV lamp are necessary
Examines garments and other items

Fiber Examination

Examines color, composition, and construction
Compared to known fibers for similarities
Use microscopy, micro-chemical tests (solubility), and melting point tests to determine uniqueness

Tape Examination

Matches tape fragments from a crime scene to suspect's possession
Explores composition, color, diameter

Macro-etching Examination

Acid-etching method for restoring numbers
Used on metal surfaces
Chemicals used: different solutions based on metal type (iron/steel, aluminum, lead)
Examines stamped/engraved/embossed numbers

Number Restoration

Molecular disturbance is stamped
Visible metal portion of the number is erased
Preliminary examination: location of serial number, remove grease and oil, clean, and photograph

Liquor Test

Purpose: determines intoxication by ethyl alcohol level
Laboratory: quantitative examination of ethyl alcohol in blood determines alcohol quantity.
Significance: Intoxication is considered as aggravating or mitigating circumstances, depending on the habitual nature and intentional or subsequent events,

Explore the crucial aspects of forensic examinations related to hair and fibers. This quiz covers the structural components of hair, the techniques used in examinations including ultraviolet light and fiber analysis, and how to differentiate between human and animal hair. Test your knowledge on how these methods contribute to forensic science.