LoopLoops are the most common type of fingerprint with an average of 65% of all fingerprints. Some of the ridges enter and exit on the same side of the finger.
Loops can be subdivided into radial loops and ulna loops. Radial loops enter and exit the finger on the side closest to the thumb. Ulna loops enter and exit the finger on the side closest to the pinky finger. |
WhorlClose to 30% of fingerprints are whorls. In this fingerprint the ridges form a circular pattern.
Whorls can be plain, central pocket, double loop or accidental. Central pocket whorls are usually elevated and have a smaller whorl pattern. Double loop whorls are made with two distinct loop patterns and accidental whorls combine all three. |
ArchArches are the least common of all fingerprint types, accounting for approximately 5% of all fingerprints. The ridges run from one side of the finger to the other.
Arches can be plain or tented. Plain arches are flat or only show a slight peak. Tented arches are sharp and have a well defined peak. |
Fingerprint Investigation.docx | |
File Size: | 79 kb |
File Type: | docx |
Ridge Ending"A point where two ridge units intersect" (ODEC, n.d.).
Dot "An isolated ridge unit whose length approximates its width in size" (ODEC, n.d.).
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Lake Enclosure"A single friction ridge that bifurcates and rejoins after
a short course and continues as a single friction ridge" (ODEC, n.d.). Double Bifurcation |
Bifurcation"The point at which one friction ridge divides into two friction ridges" (ODEC, n.d.).
Island (Short Ridge)"Friction ridges of varying lengths" (ODEC, n.d.).
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Hook (Spur)"A bifurcation with one short ridge branching off a longer ridge" (ODEC, n.d.).
Opposed Bifurcation |
Narrowing Down The Suspects.docx | |
File Size: | 1231 kb |
File Type: | docx |