Fingerprint Analysis and Identification

Flashcards focusing on key concepts related to fingerprint analysis, including definitions and descriptions of various terms and methods used in fingerprint identification.

Dactylography

The study of fingerprints for identification purposes.

Latent fingerprints

Fingerprints that are not visible to the naked eye but can be made visible through chemicals.

Minutiae

Unique ridge patterns used to identify fingerprints, essential for distinguishing one individual's fingerprint from another.

APOCRINE glands

Sweat glands associated with hair follicles, contributing to latent fingerprints.

Eccrine glands

Sweat glands primarily located on the ridges of the hands and feet, responsible for producing sweat.

AFIS

Automated Fingerprint Identification System; a system used to electronically store and search fingerprint records.

Core

The center region of a fingerprint, especially in loops and whorls, that forensic examiners analyze.

Delta

A triangular region located near a loop fingerprint that aids in its classification.

Plain arch

A fingerprint pattern where ridges enter on one side and exit on the other without a central spike.

Tented arch

A fingerprint pattern characterized by a spike in the center.

Radial loop

A fingerprint pattern that opens toward the radial bone (thumb side) of the arm.

Ulnar loop

A fingerprint pattern that opens toward the ulna bone (little finger side) of the arm.

Patent fingerprint

Visible fingerprints left on a smooth surface when a fluid such as blood or ink transfers to it.

Plastic fingerprints

Actual indentations left in a soft material, such as clay or wax.

Ninhydrin

A chemical used to develop latent fingerprints on surfaces like paper by reacting with amino acids.

Cyanoacrylate

Commonly known as super glue, used in a fuming method to develop latent fingerprints on various objects.

Iodine fuming

A technique involving the heating of iodine crystals to develop latent fingerprints, producing a brown print.

Silver nitrate

A chemical used to develop fingerprints, which reacts with salt deposits in sweat to form visible prints.

Fingerprint alteration

Attempts made by individuals, including criminals, to change their fingerprints for evasion, which are generally unsuccessful.

Twelve-match guideline

The standard used by fingerprint experts that requires at least twelve matching minutiae to confidently declare a match.

Processing time for AFIS

Approximately two hours for the system to search and provide a list of matching fingerprints after scanning an unknown print.