Physics and Pattern Interpretation

Physics and pattern interpretation refers to a collection of forensic disciplines where the evidence is generated through physical processes. This can range from fingerprints to footwear impressions, striations from a firearm on a bullet, to bloodstains on a surface. Examination of this evidence involves classification or comparison of the spatial arrangement of physical features. The disciplines under physics and pattern interpretation include:

• Firearms and toolmarks
• Friction ridge (e.g., fingerprints)
• Footwear
• Tire tread
• Bloodstain pattern 
• Questioned documents

Review a presentation on NIJ's firearms and toolmarks research and development portfolio.

On this page, find links to articles, awards, events, publications, and multimedia related to physics and pattern interpretation