fiber basics
What are fibers considered in forensic science class or individual evidence?
Class evidence
What protein makes up animal fibers like wool and cashmere?
Keratin
Which nondestructive method is best for observing fiber cross-sections?
Polarizing microscopy
What is the simplest weave pattern called?
Plain weave
What type of evidence is most common in violent crimes involving physical contact?
Fiber evidence
What are the two types of transfers involving fibers?
Primary and secondary
What carbohydrate forms plant fibers like cotton and hemp?
Cellulose
Which test separates dyes to identify fiber source?
Chromatography
Which weave pattern has diagonal ridges?
Twill
Why are synthetic fibers easier to produce in bulk?
They’re made from uniform chemical polymers
What is the study of fibers and fabrics used in solving crimes called?
Fiber analysis
Name one synthetic polymer fiber completely made by humans.
Nylon / Polyester / Acrylic / Spandex
name two destructive fiber tests
burn and solubility tests
Which weave pattern is shiny and snags easily?
Satin
Which fiber type is often used to imitate wool in cheaper clothing?
Acrylic
Which part of the fabric runs lengthwise?
Warp
Which fiber is mineral-based and can cause cancer when inhaled?
Asbestos
Which synthetic fiber has a perfectly round cross-section?
Polyester
What weave pattern is commonly used in denim?
Twill
Why do forensic scientists prefer nondestructive tests first?
So evidence isn’t destroyed and can be re-tested
What part of the fabric weaves across the warp threads?
Weft
Which fiber is made from rabbit hair?
Angora
What characteristic of animal hair can be seen under a microscope that synthetics lack?
Cuticle scales and medulla
Whats the difference between textile and fabric?
A textile is the woven material; fabric is the finished cloth used in clothing or items.
What makes fiber evidence useful even though it’s class evidence?
It can still link a suspect, object, or location through consistency and comparison.