Identification — MCQs

Identification Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs

Question 341: In forensic medicine, the modern system of fingerprint identification that is also used in medical genetics for studying dermatoglyphics was first established in which country?

A. United Kingdom
B. Japan
C. India (Correct Answer)
D. Malaysia

Explanation: ***India*** - **Sir Edward Henry**, while serving as Inspector General of Police in Bengal, India, developed the **Henry Classification System** in 1897, which became the foundation of the modern fingerprint identification system used worldwide. - This systematic classification method allowed for efficient **storage, retrieval, and comparison of fingerprint records**, making it practical for forensic identification and dermatoglyphics. - The Henry System was later adopted by Scotland Yard in 1901 and became the international standard for fingerprint classification. - While Sir William Herschel had earlier used fingerprints administratively in India, it was Henry who established the **modern systematic approach** still used today. *United Kingdom* - Sir Francis Galton conducted pioneering research on fingerprints in the UK, publishing "Finger Prints" (1892), which proved their uniqueness and permanence. - However, the practical classification system (Henry System) was developed in India, though it was later officially adopted by Scotland Yard in 1901. - Galton's work provided the **scientific foundation**, but not the systematic classification method. *Japan* - Japan was not involved in the foundational development of the modern fingerprint identification system. - Japan later adopted fingerprint technology for forensic purposes but did not establish the original system. *Malaysia* - Malaysia was not the country where the modern system of fingerprint identification was established. - Like many nations, Malaysia adopted fingerprint identification systems after they were developed elsewhere.

Question 342: Which traditional method is considered most reliable for personal identification in forensic science?

A. Gustafson's method
B. Anthropometry
C. DNA profiling
D. Galton method (Correct Answer)

Explanation: ***Galton method*** - The **Galton method**, which refers to **fingerprint analysis**, is considered a highly reliable traditional method for personal identification due to the uniqueness and permanence of fingerprints. - No two individuals, even identical twins, have been found to have the exact same **fingerprint patterns**, making it a robust identifier. *Gustafson's method* - **Gustafson's method** is a technique used for **age estimation based on dental changes**, not for definitive personal identification. - While it provides an estimate of age, it cannot uniquely identify an individual. *DNA profiling* - **DNA profiling** is indeed the most reliable method for personal identification in modern forensic science, but it is not considered a "traditional" method. - The question specifically asks for a **traditional method**, distinguishing it from newer genetic techniques. *Anthropometry* - **Anthropometry** involves the measurement of the **human body and its parts**, often used for classification or to establish demographic profiles. - It is not reliable for unique personal identification as many individuals share similar physical measurements.

Question 343: Which of the following involves the examination of pores on the skin for personal identification?

A. Podography
B. Dactylography
C. Poroscopy (Correct Answer)
D. Cheiloscopy

Explanation: ***Poroscopy*** - **Poroscopy** is the method of personal identification through the examination of the anatomical characteristics of sweat pores. - This technique analyzes the **size, shape, and relative position** of pores found on friction ridge skin, which are unique to each individual. *Podography* - **Podography** involves the study of footprints and foot impressions, primarily for gait analysis or identification based on foot morphology. - It focuses on features like arches, weight distribution, and toe patterns, rather than skin pores. *Dactylography* - **Dactylography** is the scientific study of **fingerprints** and dermatoglyphics for personal identification. - While it deals with friction ridge skin, its primary focus is on the ridge patterns (**loops**, **whorls**, **arches**), not the pores within the ridges. *Cheiloscopy* - **Cheiloscopy** is the forensic study of patterns of **fissures and grooves on the lips** for personal identification. - It analyzes the unique arrangement of **lip furrows**, which are distinct from skin pores.

Question 344: Which of the following is not a recognized pattern in fingerprints?

A. Loop
B. Whorl
C. Arch
D. Concentric (Correct Answer)

Explanation: ***Concentric*** - **Concentric** patterns are not a recognized primary classification of fingerprints. While some fingerprint patterns may appear somewhat concentric, it is not a standalone category like loops, whorls, or arches. - The three main patterns categorize the vast majority of human fingerprints based on their distinct ridge flow characteristics. *Loop* - A **loop** is a recognized and common fingerprint pattern where ridges enter from one side of the finger, form a curve, and then exit from the same side. - They account for approximately 60-70% of all fingerprints and are characterized by a single delta and a core. *Whorl* - A **whorl** is a distinct fingerprint pattern characterized by ridges that make a complete circuit, forming a spiral or circular shape. - Whorls are subdivided into plain whorls, central pocket loops, double loops, and accidental whorls, and they typically have two deltas. *Arch* - An **arch** is a recognized fingerprint pattern where ridges enter from one side of the finger, rise in the center to form a wave-like or arch-like structure, and then exit from the opposite side without making a recurve. - Arches are the least common type of fingerprint pattern, comprising about 5% of all prints, and they lack deltas and cores.

Question 345: Disputed maternity can be solved by using the following tests, EXCEPT:

A. Blood grouping
B. HLA typing
C. DNA fingerprinting
D. Precipitin test (Correct Answer)

Explanation: ***Precipitin test*** - The **precipitin test** is used to determine the origin of a **blood sample**, specifically whether it is **human or animal blood**, by detecting species-specific proteins. It is not used for assessing maternity. - This test is primarily employed in **forensic serology** to differentiate between blood from different animal species, making it irrelevant for paternity or maternity disputes. *Blood grouping* - **Blood grouping** (e.g., ABO and Rh systems) can be used to **exclude paternity or maternity** by comparing the blood types of the child, mother, and alleged father. - If the child's blood type is incompatible with the alleged parents based on Mendelian inheritance, one or both can be excluded. *HLA typing* - **HLA typing** (Human Leukocyte Antigen) is a more powerful genetic marker system than ABO/Rh for determining paternity or maternity. - It involves analyzing highly polymorphic genes on chromosome 6 that encode cell surface proteins, providing a more definitive means of **inclusion or exclusion**. *DNA fingerprinting* - **DNA fingerprinting** (also known as **DNA profiling**) is the **most accurate and widely accepted method** for resolving paternity and maternity disputes. - It analyzes highly variable regions of DNA unique to each individual, providing a statistically strong basis for **inclusion or exclusion** by comparing genetic profiles.

Question 346: Which test is used to detect gunshot residue on hands?

A. Phenolphthalein test
B. Dermal nitrate test (Correct Answer)
C. Benzidine test
D. H2 activation test

Explanation: ***Dermal nitrate test*** - The **dermal nitrate test**, also known as the **paraffin test**, is used to detect the presence of nitrates and nitrites left on the hands after firing a gun. These compounds are components of gunpowder residue. - A positive result, indicated by a color change (blue specks), suggests the individual may have recently discharged a firearm or handled an object contaminated with gunshot residue. *Phenolphthalein test* - The **phenolphthalein test** is primarily used to detect the presence of **blood**. It reacts with the heme in blood to produce a pink color. - This test is not specific for gunpowder residue and would not indicate whether a person has recently fired a gun. *Benzidine test* - The **benzidine test** is another presumptive test used to detect the presence of **blood**. It is a highly sensitive test, turning blue in the presence of blood. - Due to its **carcinogenic properties**, its use has largely been replaced by other, safer tests for blood detection. It is not used for gunshot residue. *H2 activation test* - The term "**H2 activation test**" is not a standard or recognized forensic test for the detection of gunshot residue. - Forensic methods like Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) are typically used for definitive gunshot residue analysis, focusing on characteristic particles containing lead, barium, and antimony.

Question 347: If the 4th infralabial scale of a snake is larger than the others on either side, which snake is most likely being identified?

A. Cobra
B. Krait (Correct Answer)
C. Viper
D. Coral snake

Explanation: ***Krait*** - A distinguishing characteristic of **krait species** (e.g., common krait, *Bungarus caeruleus*) is the presence of an **enlarged 4th infralabial scale** relative to the adjacent scales. This is a key feature for field identification. - This specific scale arrangement is an important **diagnostic morphological feature** for differentiating krait species from other venomous snakes, particularly useful in forensic toxicology. - Kraits are part of India's **"Big Four"** venomous snakes responsible for most snakebite deaths. *Cobra* - While cobras possess varying scale patterns, the **enlarged 4th infralabial scale** is not a characteristic feature used for their identification. - Cobras (including the Indian cobra, *Naja naja*) are typically identified by their prominent **hood** and distinct markings, along with their relatively uniform infralabial scales. *Viper* - Vipers generally have **keeled scales** and a **triangular head** shape, but the size of their infralabial scales is not a primary diagnostic feature for species identification. - Russell's viper and saw-scaled viper, common in India, are identified by patterns like chain-like markings, their robust build, and distinctive head shapes. *Coral snake* - While coral snakes (family Elapidae, like kraits) are recognized by their distinct **banded color patterns**, they are **not native to the Indian subcontinent**. - Their infralabial scale morphology is not a prominent feature used for identification, and they rely primarily on warning coloration.

Question 348: Blackening and tattooing of skin and clothing can be best demonstrated by

A. Luminol spray
B. Infrared photography (Correct Answer)
C. Ultraviolet light
D. Magnifying lens

Explanation: ***Infrared photography*** - This technique effectively visualizes **gunpowder residues** on skin and clothing because unburnt or partially burnt powder particles absorb infrared light, making them appear dark against lighter backgrounds. - It distinguishes **tattooing** (embedded powder) from **blackening** (surface soot) by its ability to penetrate shallow layers of tissue or fabric. *Luminol spray* - Luminol is primarily used to detect **latent bloodstains** through a chemiluminescence reaction. - It reacts with the iron in hemoglobin and would not specifically demonstrate gunpowder residues or tattooing. *Ultraviolet light* - UV light is useful for visualizing biological fluids, fibers, and some fingerprints, often by making them fluoresce. - It is generally not effective for the specific identification of **gunpowder tattooing** or **blackening**. *Magnifying lens* - While a magnifying lens can help in *visual inspection* of residues, it only magnifies what is visible to the naked eye. - It lacks the specialized capabilities to detect or differentiate residues with the same clarity and distinction as infrared photography can.

Question 349: The most reliable bones for the purpose of medullary index are the following, except:

A. Tibia
B. Radius
C. Sternum (Correct Answer)
D. Humerus

Explanation: ***Sternum*** - The **medullary index** is used to classify **long bones** as human or non-human based on the ratio of the medullary cavity diameter to the bone's total diameter. - The sternum is a **flat bone** and does not possess a distinct medullary canal suitable for calculating the medullary index. *Humerus* - The humerus is a **long bone** frequently used in forensic anthropology for calculating the **medullary index**. - Its diaphysis contains a prominent **medullary cavity** that allows for accurate measurement. *Tibia* - The tibia is another **long bone** commonly used for determining the **medullary index**. - It has a significant **medullary canal** throughout its shaft, making it suitable for this measurement. *Radius* - The radius, like the humerus and tibia, is a **long bone** appropriate for calculating the **medullary index**. - Its shaft contains a well-defined **medullary cavity**, allowing for reliable measurements.

Question 350: Which method is considered the most reliable for fingerprint identification?

A. Gustafson method
B. Galton method (Correct Answer)
C. Anthropometry
D. Scars

Explanation: ***Galton method*** - The **Galton method**, or **Galton's details**, refers to the unique patterns of **ridges and minutiae** (e.g., bifurcations, endings, dots) in fingerprints. - This method focuses on the **individual characteristics** and arrangements of these features, which are considered **highly individualizing** and form the basis of modern fingerprint analysis. *Gustafson method* - The **Gustafson method** is used in **forensic odontology** (dental forensics) for **age estimation** based on the examination of teeth. - It involves analyzing six morphological criteria of tooth changes, such as **attrition, secondary dentin deposits, and cementum apposition**, which are unrelated to fingerprint identification. *Anthropometry* - **Anthropometry** is the scientific study of the **measurements and proportions of the human body**. - It was historically used for identification (e.g., **Bertillonage system**) but was found to be less reliable than fingerprints due to the variability and commonality of body measurements. *Scars* - While **scars** can be unique bodily marks, they are **not considered a primary method for definitive identification** in the same way fingerprints are. - Scars can change over time, are not always present or uniformly documented, and lack the detailed, unchangeable patterns found in friction ridge skin.

Practice by Chapter

Personal Identification Methods

Practice Questions

Anthropometry

Practice Questions

Dactylography (Fingerprinting)

Practice Questions

Dental Identification

Practice Questions

DNA Profiling

Practice Questions

Facial Reconstruction

Practice Questions

Superimposition Techniques

Practice Questions

Hair and Fiber Analysis

Practice Questions

Handwriting Analysis

Practice Questions

Identification of Remains

Practice Questions

Mass Disaster Victim Identification

Practice Questions

Age, Sex and Race Determination

Practice Questions

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