What is trace evidence?

Trace evidence refers to small quantities of physical or biological materials that can be transferred from one location to another, typically during the commission of a crime. These materials, which can include fibers, hair, soil, or paint, are often microscopic and can provide critical information about a case. Forensic scientists analyze trace evidence to establish connections between suspects, victims, and crime scenes.

The distinction between trace evidence and other types of evidence is important; trace evidence is by definition measurable only in small amounts. This is what makes it unique, as it often requires sophisticated techniques for collection and analysis to yield significant information. In contrast, a large quantity of physical or biological evidence would not meet the criteria for trace evidence and may be categorized differently depending on its nature and context within an investigation.