Hair and Fiber Analysis in Forensics
This worksheet covers fundamental concepts of hair and fiber analysis as applied in forensic science, including morphology, types, and evidentiary value.
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Hair and Fiber Analysis in Forensics
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Read each question carefully and provide your best answer based on your knowledge of forensic hair and fiber analysis.
1. Which part of the hair shaft is most resistant to decomposition and contains mitochondrial DNA?
Cortex
Medulla
Cuticle
Root
2. Which of the following is a natural fiber derived from plants?
Nylon
Silk
Cotton
Polyester
3. The outermost layer of hair, composed of scales, is called the .
4. fibers are often characterized by a uniform diameter and consistent color along their length.
5. Hair can be used to determine the age and sex of an individual with 100% certainty.
True
False
6. A forensic scientist can determine if a fiber is natural or synthetic by observing its burning characteristics.
True
False
7. Briefly describe two ways in which hair evidence can be distinguished between human and animal origin.
8. Observe the image of the microscope below. Explain why microscopy is a crucial tool in both hair and fiber analysis.
Match the hair characteristic with its description.
9. Medullary Index
a. The central core of the hair shaft
10. Cortex
b. The ratio of the medulla's diameter to the hair's diameter
11. Medulla
c. The main body of the hair shaft, containing pigment granules