Question

Which biometric technique is considered nearly infallible from a scientific point of view and is increasingly preferred by criminal justice experts as a method of identification?

Answer 1

Answer:

DNA analysis

Explanation:

DNA is unique for all individuals. DNA analysis is the process of analysing the DNA characteristics of an individual.

DNA profiling is used in forensics to identify the suspects involved in criminal activities.

1. In the process, DNA of the suspects is matched with the DNA found in the site of the crime.

2. If a match is found, it indicates that the genetic relationship exists between the suspect and the criminal or the crim.

3. The order from the court is needed to obtain the DNA of the suspects. The sample can be in the form of blood or saliva.

4. The sample obtained should have adequate cells which contain the DNA.

Issues  

The DNA obtained from the crime site is not pure or proper enough to be ideal for the DNA profiling.

Degraded sample

1. The sample obtained from the site of the crime is not always adequate to obtain the actual DNA.

2. The sample can be contaminated due to the environmental factors.

3. The sample obtained is too less and hence, should be examined accurately in order not to waste the sample.

DNA mixture

4. The sample obtained from the site of the crime is found to contain DNA from more than one individual.

 

Profiling types

DNA profiling can be carried out by using any of the techniques mentioned below.

1. RFLP analysis (  Restriction fragment length polymorphism )

This uses the Southern blot technique. The blot process needs a large amount of the sample. Also, this works well only when the sample is not degraded.

2. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis

3. STR analysis ( short tandem repeats )

4. AFLP ( amplified fragment length polymorphism )

This is an automated and low-cost process. It is easy to set up and operate which makes this process common in low income countries.

All the methods mentioned above have their own advantages and drawbacks.