
Published online:
24 September 2013
Published in print:
25 February 2010
Online ISBN:
9780191777400
Print ISBN:
9780199558056
Contents
Cite
Fraser, Jim, 'Trace evidence', Forensic Science: A Very Short Introduction, 1st edn, Very Short Introductions (Oxford , 2010; online edn, Oxford Academic, 24 Sept. 2013), https://doi.org/10.1093/actrade/9780199558056.003.0007, accessed 24 Apr. 2025.
Abstract
‘Trace evidence’ studies the principles, techniques, and assessment of trace evidence examination (such as fibres, glass, or paint), and its importance in police investigations. Fibres are first examined crudely under a microscope, then matching fibres are examined further using microspectrophotometry. The composition of paint varies widely, but its examination is similar to that of fibres — the sample undergoes microscopy before being subjected to a chemical assay. Glass fragments do not stay on fabrics for very long and are ususally lost within a day. Again, glass is analysed using microscopy, with more advanced results available from interferometry.
Series
Very Short Introductions
Collection:
Very Short Introductions
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