What are examples of trace evidence?

Trace evidence refers to materials that are transferred from one location or object to another and can be extremely small and often unnoticed. Such evidence is crucial in forensic science as it can link a suspect to a crime scene or victim. Examples of trace evidence typically include materials like hair, fibers, glass, or soil, which can be analyzed to establish connections between people and places.

Hair and fibers can come from clothing or personal items and are often found on victims or at crime scenes, aiding in establishing a suspect’s presence. Glass fragments can be linked to places such as windows or bottles involved in a crime. Soil can indicate a location where a person has been or an object has been hidden, making all these examples significant in a criminal investigation.

The other choices provided refer to forms of evidence that are either less subtle or involve the direct documentation of events or actions, but they do not fall within the definition of trace evidence, which consists of tiny, often overlooked materials that can provide critical links in investigations.