1.

Explain what is meant by documentation of physical evidence and explain why it is important an important step in the handling of physical evidence. Answer : Documentation includes the markings used for the identification of physical evidence, its description, information about the location of the evidence at the scene, and who collected and handled the evidence. Proper and complete documentation is critical to establish the legal and scientific requirements of the chain of custody. Complete and accurate documentation is very important in the investigation of cold cases, providing information about the facts surrounding the incident and refreshing the memory of those involved with the case.

2. Distinguish between a questioned specimen and a known specimen. Answer : An evidentiary specimen originating from scenes and unknown sources is termed a questioned specimen. Specimens from known sources or people are termed known specimens.

3. Provide a definition for the following terms: identification and individualization. Answer: Identification is the process of placing an object within a group of similar objects according to their basic characteristics. Individualization is the process of demonstrating that an object is unique, even among members of the same class or that two separate objects were at one time a single object (common source or origin).

3. What is the relationship between the following scientific terms: hypothesis, a theory, and a natural law? Answer : A hypothesis is an educated guess to explain an observation. A theory is a well-tested hypothesis. A natural law is a well-tested theory.

4. What limitations in the pattern evidence would lead to an exclusion or inconclusive comparison result? Answer : Exclusion is a conclusion reached by an examiner if class characteristics do not match, or if there are no unexplained differences between Q and K patterns. Inconclusive is a conclusion reached by an examiner when a comparison of K and Q specimens permits neither identification nor exclusion.

5. Define transient evidence and provide an example. Answer : Transient evidence refers to evidence that is easily destroyed or compromised. Example: footprints that may be inadvertently damaged or the positions of objects at a scene that may be accidentally altered by the crime scene investigation activities.

6. Describe the various steps of the process known as the "firing train." Answer : The process begins when the firing pin of a firearm strikes the primer cup on the base of the casing, crushing it and causing the shock sensitive material to ignite. A spark or flame is transferred through a hole in the primer compartment to the main powder charge. The powder charge ignites releasing heat and gases and the resulting pressure forces the bullet out of the case and down the barrel.

7. Describe the individualizing features that may be found on recovered shotshell casings. Answer : The firing mechanism of a shotgun is analogous to that of a rifle. Thus the shell case can acquire firing pin impressions, breech face impressions, and potentially extractor and /or ejector marks that can be used to individualize to a particular firearm.

8. Describe two key safety checks that are performed as part of the initial physical examination of a firearm. Answer : i) Ensuring that no cartridge has been left in the firing chamber. ii) Sighting down the barrel to verify that it is not obstructed by a jammed bullet or other material.