Question

1. the cuticle pattern of humans is called _____________.
2. what are three questions a forensic scientist would ask about a fiber?
3. fibers can be classified as ___________ or ___________.
4. which of the following is a seed fiber?

a) coir
b) hemp
c) jute
d) cotton

1. a human head hair is best characterized by

a) the absence of a cortex
b) a medulla that is more than ½ the overall diameter of the hair shaft
c) a medulla that is absent or less than 1/3 the overall diameter of the hair shaft
d) a continuous or interrupted medulla
e) its scale pattern
make sure you have your study card for this topic

Explanation:

1. Human hair cuticle has a unique scale pattern.
2. Forensic scientists focus on fiber origin, type, and connection to a scene.
3. Fibers are split into two main natural/manmade groups.
4. Seed fibers come from plant seeds; cotton fits this.
5. Human head hair has a very narrow or absent medulla.

Answer:

1. imbricate
2. 1. What type of fiber is this?
3. Where did this fiber originate?
4. How did this fiber get to the crime scene?
5. natural; synthetic
6. d) cotton
7. c) a medulla that is absent or less than 1/3 the overall diameter of the hair shaft