Chapter 3: Hair Analysis

Comparison Microscope

A type of microscope used to compare samples side by side for analytical purposes.

Cuticle

The transparent outer layer of the hair shaft composed of overlapping scales.

Gas chromatography

A technique used to separate and analyze compounds that can be vaporized.

Hair follicle

The structure in the skin from which hair grows.

Hair shaft

The visible part of hair that extends above the skin.

Keratin

The protein that makes up hair and provides strength and resilience.

Medulla

The central core of a hair fiber which can vary in structure.

Melanin granules

Pigment particles found in the cortex of hair that determine color.

Mitochondrial DNA (mDNA)

A type of DNA inherited maternally that can show family relationships.

Nuclear DNA

DNA that is located in the nucleus of cells and provides individual evidence.

Forensic analysis

The examination of physical evidence in a crime scene to provide scientific data for legal purposes.

Chromatography

A method for separating mixtures into their individual components.

Spectroscopy

A technique that uses the interaction of light with matter to identify substances.

DNA profiling

The process of determining an individual's unique DNA characteristics for identification.

Trace evidence

Small amounts of material found at a crime scene that can link a suspect to the crime.

Microscopy

The use of a microscope to study small objects and details not visible to the naked eye.

Fibers

Thin strands of material, often used in forensic analysis to link suspects and victims.

Nuclear vs Mitochondrial DNA

Nuclear DNA is inherited from both parents and provides individual characteristics, while mitochondrial DNA is inherited from the mother and can trace maternal lineage.

Sample preservation

Methods used to protect evidence from degradation or contamination prior to analysis.

Comparative analysis

Examining and contrasting two or more samples to identify similarities and differences.