Open the App

Subjects

Forensic Science Methods for Evidence Collection

4

0

E

emilie

02/12/2025

Combined Science

Forensic Science Methods of Collection

191

2 Dec 2025

3 pages

Forensic Science Methods for Evidence Collection

E

emilie

@em1l1e

Crime scene investigators use various collection methods to gather crucial... Show more

Page 1
Page 2
Page 3
1 / 3
UNIT 4

Methods of Colection

•TOOIS

> tape > powders.

> tweezers adhesive stubs GSR

(collecting gunshot residue)

Techniques.

1. Shakin

Collection Tools and Basic Techniques

Crime scene investigation relies on specialised tools like tape, tweezers, powders, and adhesive stubs for collecting gunshot residue. These tools help preserve evidence integrity whilst maintaining the chain of custody.

Shaking is the simplest collection method - you literally shake items over paper or containers to dislodge loose evidence. Whilst it's quick and easy, this technique doesn't document where evidence was originally located, and some particles might stubbornly stay attached.

Brushing involves using clean brushes or combs to collect evidence from victims or suspects, with paper placed underneath to catch falling particles. Each area requires a fresh brush to prevent cross-contamination, and everything gets packaged separately.

Key Point: Both shaking and brushing work brilliantly for collecting fibres, hairs, glass fragments, and paint chips - evidence that could link suspects to crime scenes.

UNIT 4

Methods of Colection

•TOOIS

> tape > powders.

> tweezers adhesive stubs GSR

(collecting gunshot residue)

Techniques.

1. Shakin

Advanced Collection Methods

Taping uses one-sided adhesive tape pressed against surfaces like car seats until the stickiness disappears. The tape then gets mounted on clear acetate sheets for protection and analysis - perfect for collecting fingerprints and fibres.

Casting transforms 2D impressions into permanent evidence using plaster of Paris mixed with water. Fine powders help develop footprints on flat surfaces, whilst chemicals enhance impressions on glass or tiles.

Vacuuming involves specialised equipment with filtered traps that catch microscopic evidence from suspected areas. Everything collected gets packaged in clean trace paper before heading to the laboratory for analysis.

Quick Tip: Casting works exceptionally well for footwear impressions, tyre prints, and tool marks - evidence that can directly link suspects to specific locations.

UNIT 4

Methods of Colection

•TOOIS

> tape > powders.

> tweezers adhesive stubs GSR

(collecting gunshot residue)

Techniques.

1. Shakin

Precise Collection Techniques

Hand picking requires careful visual examination of objects, sometimes using magnifying glasses to spot tiny evidence like hairs, fibres, glass, soil, or paint. When you find something, it goes straight into appropriately sized packaging to prevent loss.

Swabbing demands precision - you apply the swab tip to sample areas, rotating once whilst applying moderate pressure. The entire swab surface must contact the object, but over-rotating can damage delicate evidence.

This technique excels at collecting touch DNA, fingerprints, cells, blood, and other bodily fluids that might be invisible to the naked eye. Proper swabbing can recover DNA from surfaces that suspects barely touched.

Remember: Each collection method serves specific evidence types - choosing the right technique can make or break a criminal investigation.



We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Most popular content in Biology

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Combined Science

191

2 Dec 2025

3 pages

Forensic Science Methods for Evidence Collection

E

emilie

@em1l1e

Crime scene investigators use various collection methods to gather crucial evidence that could solve cases. These techniques range from simple shaking methods to more complex casting procedures, each designed to preserve different types of evidence without contamination.

UNIT 4

Methods of Colection

•TOOIS

> tape > powders.

> tweezers adhesive stubs GSR

(collecting gunshot residue)

Techniques.

1. Shakin

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Collection Tools and Basic Techniques

Crime scene investigation relies on specialised tools like tape, tweezers, powders, and adhesive stubs for collecting gunshot residue. These tools help preserve evidence integrity whilst maintaining the chain of custody.

Shaking is the simplest collection method - you literally shake items over paper or containers to dislodge loose evidence. Whilst it's quick and easy, this technique doesn't document where evidence was originally located, and some particles might stubbornly stay attached.

Brushing involves using clean brushes or combs to collect evidence from victims or suspects, with paper placed underneath to catch falling particles. Each area requires a fresh brush to prevent cross-contamination, and everything gets packaged separately.

Key Point: Both shaking and brushing work brilliantly for collecting fibres, hairs, glass fragments, and paint chips - evidence that could link suspects to crime scenes.

UNIT 4

Methods of Colection

•TOOIS

> tape > powders.

> tweezers adhesive stubs GSR

(collecting gunshot residue)

Techniques.

1. Shakin

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Advanced Collection Methods

Taping uses one-sided adhesive tape pressed against surfaces like car seats until the stickiness disappears. The tape then gets mounted on clear acetate sheets for protection and analysis - perfect for collecting fingerprints and fibres.

Casting transforms 2D impressions into permanent evidence using plaster of Paris mixed with water. Fine powders help develop footprints on flat surfaces, whilst chemicals enhance impressions on glass or tiles.

Vacuuming involves specialised equipment with filtered traps that catch microscopic evidence from suspected areas. Everything collected gets packaged in clean trace paper before heading to the laboratory for analysis.

Quick Tip: Casting works exceptionally well for footwear impressions, tyre prints, and tool marks - evidence that can directly link suspects to specific locations.

UNIT 4

Methods of Colection

•TOOIS

> tape > powders.

> tweezers adhesive stubs GSR

(collecting gunshot residue)

Techniques.

1. Shakin

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Precise Collection Techniques

Hand picking requires careful visual examination of objects, sometimes using magnifying glasses to spot tiny evidence like hairs, fibres, glass, soil, or paint. When you find something, it goes straight into appropriately sized packaging to prevent loss.

Swabbing demands precision - you apply the swab tip to sample areas, rotating once whilst applying moderate pressure. The entire swab surface must contact the object, but over-rotating can damage delicate evidence.

This technique excels at collecting touch DNA, fingerprints, cells, blood, and other bodily fluids that might be invisible to the naked eye. Proper swabbing can recover DNA from surfaces that suspects barely touched.

Remember: Each collection method serves specific evidence types - choosing the right technique can make or break a criminal investigation.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

4

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Most popular content in Biology

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user