Forensics – Crime Scene Practice Test

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• Why is including a scale with each photograph important?
• Secondary crime scene locations are locations that may contain what?
• Which practice helps prevent moisture buildup and preserve DNA during packaging?
• What additional information should be included on a sketch?
• Used to show scale
• Why are fingerprint ridge characteristics considered class characteristics and not absolute identifiers?
• Type of Circumstantial Evidence: ______ evidence: small but measurable amounts of physical or biological material found at a crime scene. Examples: strand of hair, fingerprint, DNA, drop of blood, pollen, gunshot residue
• What is the primary purpose of maintaining a chain of custody?
• What is unallocated space in digital storage, and why is it relevant to investigations?
• Medical procedure performed to determine the cause of death
• Which container is preferred for hairs, glass, fibers, and other trace evidence?
• Type of Circumstantial Evidence: ______ evidence: synthetic fibers, weapons, bullets, shell casings, paint chips, documents, imprints and prints (shoes, tires, etc.), tool marks, soil, drugs, etc.
• Which statement about interpreting DNA evidence with a likelihood ratio is accurate?
• How do rifling characteristics differ from striations on a bullet?
• What best describes the primary crime scene?
• Isotope ratio mass spectrometry is a technique used to measure isotope ratios to infer origin or processing. Which is a common forensic application?
• Which technique is commonly used to confirm the definitive identification of drugs in forensic toxicology?
• How does digital forensics differ in evidence handling from traditional physical evidence?
• Which statement describes videography at a crime scene?
• What term describes the documented list of individuals who have possession of an evidence item?
• Why is proper evidence labeling critical at the scene?
• When evaluating eyewitness testimony, the investigator should discriminate between what two elements?
• What is the purpose of a reference sample in DNA analysis?
• Evidence that connects to a single person?
• What is a first priority of the initial responder securing the scene?
• Which of the following is NOT an ethical consideration for an expert witness?
• What is metadata, and why is it important in digital investigations?
• List key photography principles used at a crime scene.
• Compare short tandem repeat (STR) analysis to single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis in forensic typing.
• In DNA profiling, which statement best describes the 'random match probability' concept?
• What is the primary function of a forensic laboratory in a crime scene investigation?
• Distinguish class characteristics from individual characteristics in firearms and toolmark analysis.
• What are the basic steps for securing digital evidence from a computer or smartphone?
• Provide an example of a chain-of-custody breach and its potential impact.
• What are best practices for handling fire debris to preserve accelerant traces?
• What is the purpose of a rough crime scene sketch?
• What is the role of the Medical Examiner on the CSI team?
• What is the purpose of documenting chain of custody in evidence handling?
• What is the Daubert standard, and how does it affect what evidence a court may admit?
• Blood type classification is an example of what kind of evidence?
• Which is an example of a QA measure?
• Which are the four primary actions for scene security when investigators arrive?
• Search that works well in a home
• How does fingerprint ridge flow contribute to identification?
• Which of the following is a role of evidence in an investigation?
• In crime scene sketching, which element is used to convey real-world dimensions?
• Ballistic trajectory reconstruction focuses on what aspect of a shooting incident?
• What is the main purpose of using PPE and disposable tools during scene processing?
• Describe the standard sequence of operations for processing a crime scene from arrival to release.
• Which element should be included in a well-constructed crime scene or laboratory report to document evidence handling?
• What are the two main types of crime scene sketches and their purposes?
• What is the purpose of chain-of-custody documentation in handling digital evidence?
• Define cast-off stain and give an example of how it forms.
• What features should be labeled on a crime scene sketch to indicate orientation and scale?
• Which item is listed as evidence to collect from the victim's body?
• Example of ______ evidence: Blood Type- can be A, B, AB, O.
• Which precaution best helps prevent contamination of biological evidence at a crime scene?
• What is a mixed DNA profile and what challenge does it present in interpretation?
• Why is preserving the original digital evidence important during acquisition?
• Which item is listed as evidence collected from the victim that relates to gunshot residue?
• Container for trace evidence
• What is the difference between probative value and prejudicial effect, and how does it affect admissibility?
• Outdoor search method
• Which attribute of fiber analysis is typically examined under microscopy?
• What are the three basic fingerprint ridge patterns, and what term describes small ridge details?
• Which search method divides the area into equal quadrants or zones and searches each methodically?
• Which description defines a reference sample?
• The scene of the original crime is referred to as the what?
• Which search method is organized by dividing the area into a grid pattern and inspecting each section?
• Which Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures?
• What is the purpose of the druggist's fold in evidence handling?
• How does the Frye standard differ from Daubert?
• What is AFIS and what is its role in fingerprint analysis?
• Bloodstain pattern analysis has three main considerations. Which are they?
• What does the term forensic image refer to in digital investigations?
• Exception to needing a warrant to search
• Why is packaging collected evidence an important step in crime scene processing?
• Name two types of evidence that require cold storage at a crime lab.
• Which process allows detectives to form a hypothesis of the sequence of events from before the crime through its commission?
• Which statement describes field tests compared to laboratory tests?
• How can infrared spectroscopy be used to identify unknown substances encountered at a scene?
• What is the first action in a Walk Through at a crime scene?
• Fingerprints, handwriting, DNA, and sometimes physical matches are examples of what type of evidence?
• How do you differentiate primary data from deleted or slack space in digital forensics?
• Which item is typically part of the on-scene CSI team?
• What is PCR and why is it used in forensic DNA analysis?
• What information should accompany evidence when submitted to a crime laboratory?
• What is the principle called that states a cross-transfer of physical evidence can occur when two objects come into contact?
• Which statement about packaging for DNA evidence is correct?
• What is the purpose of using write blockers during digital evidence imaging?
• Name two common presumptive tests used to indicate the possible presence of blood.
• What is the purpose of calculating and verifying a hash value during digital evidence handling?
• Who must use proper procedure and protocol to maintain chain of custody?
• What percentage of jury pools watch crime scene shows?
• What is the typical sequence for developing and collecting latent fingerprints on a nonporous surface?
• In bloodstain pattern analysis, what event information can be inferred from stain shape and distribution?
• What is the difference between presumptive and confirmatory toxicology tests?
• In ACE-V, which step involves independent confirmation of the conclusion?
• What is the role of final reporting in the sequence of crime scene processing?
• What is a negative control in forensic DNA or chemistry analysis, and why is it used?
• What is the difference between a firearm examiner's toolmark analysis and ballistic trajectory reconstruction?
• What should be included in an evidence log for each item collected?
• Describe proper evidence packaging for microorganisms or biohazards.
• What is the significance of contamination controls like negative controls in DNA labs?
• Which data is NOT typically used in ballistic trajectory reconstruction?
• What is the purpose of notes and sketches in scene processing?
• What is crime scene reconstruction and name a common method used to reconstruct events?
• In microscopic hair analysis, which feature describes the distribution of pigment within the cortex?
• Reason for not needing a warrant
• How do you calculate the impact angle from a bloodstain's shape?
• During scene documentation, which type of photographs is taken first after establishing the perimeter?
• Which of the Seven S's involves searching for evidence at the scene?
• Explain a grid search and a strip search as scene search patterns.
• Why must witnesses be separated at a crime scene?
• Which option best describes the sequence for documenting a crime scene from arrival to processing?
• Which analytical techniques are commonly used to analyze accelerants in fire debris samples?
• Explain the purpose of an evidence log at the crime scene and what it typically records.
• What is the first priority at any crime scene?
• What is GSR and what are its limitations in forensic investigations?
• Which search pattern involves surveying the scene in a circular or spiral pattern from the center outward?
• What is the difference between class evidence and individual evidence, and give an example of each?
• Type of Circumstantial Evidence: ______ evidence: body or body parts, body fluids, hair, leaves or other plant parts, natural fibers, feathers, wood
• A standard/reference sample is physical evidence whose origin is ______, such as blood or hair from a suspect, that can be compared to crime-scene evidence.
• What is the purpose of isolating the scene during processing?
• What type of container must arson materials be stored in to prevent leakage and contamination?
• What is trace evidence, and why is its collection important?
• Which step of the Seven S's focuses on determining where photographs should be taken and identifying primary and secondary crime scenes?
• When should photography be performed in relation to videotaping?
• A search pattern that does not follow a geometric pattern is known as a what?
• Why is preserving volatile data at a crime scene important in digital investigations?
• What is the role of controls in arson and accelerant residue analysis?
• Which statement best explains the role of labeling on evidence packaging?
• First-hand observations such as eyewitness accounts, videos, or confessions are classified as what type of evidence?
• Crime scene reconstruction aims to rebuild the sequence of events by integrating which data?
• What is chain of custody and why is it essential in forensic processing?
• Why are standard operating procedures (SOPs) essential in crime scene and laboratory work?
• Name four standard crime scene search patterns.
• What is an STR DNA profile and why is it central to modern forensic identification?
• What is a hash value in digital evidence and why is it important?
• Which sketch is typically used for legal proceedings because it includes precise measurements?
• Which unit is responsible for capturing photos of the crime scene?
• What is a likelihood ratio in the context of DNA interpretation?
• Which of the following is NOT a feature examined in microscopic hair analysis?
• What is the purpose of the See the Scene step?
• Evidence that narrows to a group of suspects?
• Which term is used to show scale in photos and sketches?
• Which search method proceeds in straight lines across the scene in a systematic way?
• How can digital forensics recover deleted data from a mobile device?
• In DNA testing, what is the role of negative controls?
• What term is used for a sample that serves as a baseline for comparing crime scene evidence?
• What is the official name of the evidence transfer that occurs on contact between objects?
• Crime scenes should be kept in what condition during documentation?
• What is the purpose of crime scene sketches and what are common types?
• What is essential for evidence handling to be admissible in court?
• Why is it recommended to take many photographs at a crime scene?
• What is the primary purpose of QA/QC in forensic science?
• Blood-stained materials must be stored in which type of container?
• In bloodstain pattern analysis, what does spatter morphology refer to?
• Which standard is commonly used to demonstrate laboratory competence and international acceptance?
• Trace evidence should be stored in a way that prevents cross-contamination. Which method is best?
• Explain how to collect and analyze fire debris samples for accelerants.
• In crime scene reconstruction, which data are typically integrated to determine the sequence of events?
• What is a likelihood ratio, and how is it used to express forensic strength?
• Which two-word combination completes the statement: '________ samples should also be taken from the victim for purposes of ________'?
• Where should liquids and arson remains be stored?
• Fingerprints and DNA are examples of which type of evidence?
• Measurements of important objects should be taken from two immovable landmarks. Which statement is correct?
• What is used to give evidence a numerical value?
• Which scenario justifies a warrantless search?
• Why is a cold chain maintained for biological evidence?
• Container for trace evidence
• Which type of evidence includes documents, prints, and paint chips?
• The intensity, duration, and nature of the materials in contact determine the ________ of the transfer.
• Which development method is commonly used for latent fingerprints on nonporous surfaces?
• Why are STR markers particularly useful in degraded DNA?
• What is contamination control at a crime scene?
• Which statement best describes class characteristics in firearms and toolmark analysis?
• What is the role of microscopy in fiber analysis?
• What is a primary goal when documenting the chain of custody for digital evidence?
• Which of the following best describes challenges in footwear impression analysis?
• What factors affect the reliability of bloodstain pattern interpretation?
• Which term refers to the documented chain of possession of evidence from collection to court?
• Name two methods used to visualize latent fingerprints on porous surfaces.
• Container for trace evidence (alternative phrasing)
• Which sample is often analyzed to study the distribution of substances in forensic toxicology?
• Which of the following is a typical method to prevent contamination at a scene?
• An example of an individual evidence item that can link a source to a suspect.
• What type of packaging is generally preferred for DNA-containing evidence to prevent moisture buildup and preserve DNA?
• Term describing material used as reference against evidence during analysis
• Which search pattern is best for a contained or central area?
• Differentiate between a primary crime scene and secondary locations with respect to evidence collection.
• Which description best defines a secondary crime scene?
• How can you minimize DNA contamination during evidence collection at a scene?
• What is ballistic trajectory analysis, and what data sources are typically used?
• What term describes the site of any subsequent crime, such as where the body was dumped?
• What are the typical steps in acquiring digital evidence from a computer or mobile device?
• What is the difference between a latent print and an impression?
• What distinguishes spatter from transfer blood patterns?
• What does minutiae refer to in fingerprint analysis?
• Mitochondrial DNA is inherited from which parent?
• What is the purpose of method validation in forensic QA?
• How should close-up and macro photography differ at a scene?
• What is the Daubert standard and when is it applied?
• Which statement best describes a positive control in chemical testing?
• What term describes changes in juror expectations caused by crime television shows?
• Evidence that can imply but not prove a fact
• What is the role of photography in maintaining the evidentiary value of a crime scene?
• What is the main difference between a rough sketch and a final crime scene sketch?
• Which workflow principle helps prevent cross-contamination by limiting movement through the scene?
• Which description best defines an STR DNA profile?
• Which features are examined in firearm identification for individualization?
• What is cyanoacrylate fuming used for in latent fingerprint development?
• What is the primary purpose of establishing an outer perimeter at a crime scene?
• Example: finding a suspect's gun at a crime scene is ________ evidence that the suspect was there.
• In firearm identification for potential association, how are tool mark impressions and rifling impressions used?
• What is the purpose of 'Record the Scene' during documentation?
• Which action is part of the ADAPT protocol at a crime scene?
• Which type of evidence is exemplified by small samples like a strand of hair or a drop of blood?
• What is the purpose of including scale in crime scene photographs?
• Which types of swabs are listed as potential evidence from the victim?
• Which of the following is a presumptive test for blood?
• In DNA analysis, what is the difference between Nuclear DNA and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)?
• What are STRs and why are they used in human identification?
• What does a Gunshot Residue (GSR) test assess, and what are its limitations?
• Name two common toxicology screening methods used in forensic labs.
• Which of the following should be included in the crime scene sketch?
• Which is a common forensic application of isotope ratio mass spectrometry?
• What is the difference between presumptive (screening) tests and confirmatory tests in forensic biology?
• Which search pattern is best suited for a long, open outdoor area?
• Define chain of custody and explain why breaks can render evidence inadmissible.
• If pattern types are shared between fingerprints, how is individualization achieved?
• What does blind re-testing involve in QA practices?
• The organization created in 1992 to reexamine post-conviction cases is known as what?
• Which tools are used to record the crime scene?
• Which of the following describes the primary functions of crime scene photography?
• Material taken from the crime scene to use as evidence
• In trace evidence interpretation, how are class characteristics vs individual characteristics treated?
• ACE-V stands for fingerprint analysis, but what does each step do?
• What term describes evidence that links to a single person?