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Laboratory Report Outline: Human Hair Comparisons

M. Villani

Introduction: Explain the morphology of human hair.

Problem: What can a hair sample found at a crime scene reveal about the suspect?

Hypothesis:

Data
1. Microscopic examination of your own hair.
a. Labeled diagrams of your root, tip and shaft.
b. Diameter of your hair
c. Worksheet for your hair.
d. Diagrams of the external features of your hair using both the Nail polish and Thermoplastic procedures.
2. Microscopic examination of your partner's hair.
a. Labeled diagrams of your partner's root, tip and shaft.
b. Diameter of your partner's hair
c. Worksheet for your partner's hair.
d. Diagrams of the external features of your partner's hair using both the Nail polish and Thermoplastic procedures.
3. Microscopic examination of an unknown sample of hair.
a. Internal examination
b. Diameter
c. Worksheet
d. External features

Analysis
1. Compare (similarities and differences) your hair sample with your partner's
hair sample and the unknown sample of hair.
2. If the unknown sample of hair had been left behind at a crime scene, what 
would a forensic investigator be able to learn about the suspect?

Conclusion
1. How can the racial origin of a hair sample be determined?
2. How is it possible to determine if a hair was forcibly removed from the body?
3. How can a hair sample be individualized?
4. How can a hair sample be tested for the presence of drugs?


Copyright Bronx Science 2001