Question 1

Shotgun wadding can tell an investigator both the gauge used and the type of shot used.

Accepted Answer

Shotgun wadding can leave behind distinct markings that can indicate the gauge and type of shot used. This information can be helpful in forensic investigations.

Question 2

Of the estimated 15,500 people murdered each year in the U.S. ,approximately 85% knew their assailant.

Accepted Answer

According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Report, approximately 85% of murder victims in the U.S. knew their assailant.

Question 3

Rigor mortis usually sets in about nine hours after death occurs.

Accepted Answer

Rigor mortis typically begins within 2 to 6 hours after death.

Question 4

After death the body begins to cool though the process of _____ _____ that is considered to be one of the more reliable indicators of time of death.

Accepted Answer

The answer of After death the body begins to cool...

Question 5

A persons clothing does not have an effect during the decomposition process.

Accepted Answer

A person's clothing can have an effect on the decomposition process. Clothing made of materials that do not decompose easily, such as synthetic fabrics, can slow down the decomposition process. Clothing may also trap moisture and promote the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can speed up the decomposition process. Additionally, clothing and accessories may also impact the type of scavengers attracted to the body, which can also affect decomposition.

Question 6

Entrance gunshot wounds are generally larger than exit gunshot wounds.

Accepted Answer

Entrance gunshot wounds are generally smaller and have a more defined appearance compared to exit wounds, which can be larger and more irregular due to the bullet tumbling or fragmenting inside the body.

Question 7

In death investigations,the eyes are considered the most sensitive part of the body.

Accepted Answer

The eyes are considered the most sensitive part of the body in death investigations because they can provide important clues such as the presence of petechiae (tiny red or purple spots) which can indicate asphyxiation or strangulation, or the presence of hemorrhages which can indicate trauma. Additionally, the eyes can also reveal the time of death through changes in their appearance such as cloudiness or rigor mortis.

Question 8

After the body goes through the bloating stage,it begins the purple putrefaction stage.

Accepted Answer

The answer of After the body goes through the bloating...

Question 9

_____indicates that the firearm was close to,but not actually touching,the victim's skin.

Accepted Answer

The answer of _____indicates that the firearm was close to,but...

Question 10

Bodies found in water generally decompose about twice as quickly as do those found in air.

Accepted Answer

Bodies decompose more slowly in water than in air because lower temperatures and less oxygen in water slow down the decomposition process.

Question 11

Evidence of soot is present with contact wounds.

Accepted Answer

Soot is often present with contact wounds, as the muzzle of the firearm is in close proximity to the target and can deposit particles of soot onto the wound.

Question 12

Entrance gunshot wounds are generally _____ than exit gunshot wounds.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Entrance gunshot wounds are generally _____ than...

Question 13

Shotgun ______ can tell an investigator both the gauge used and the type of shot used.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Shotgun ______ can tell an investigator both...

Question 14

Complete notes are critical during the early stages of the homicide crime-scene investigation.

Accepted Answer

Complete notes are crucial during the initial stages of a homicide investigation as they provide an accurate and detailed account of the crime scene and help investigators in determining the sequence of events and potential leads. These notes can also be used as evidence in court.

Question 15

Biochemical changes in the body after death produce stiffening of the muscles known as _____ _____,which is useful in determining the time of death.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Biochemical changes in the body after death...

Question 16

When the blood stops circulating it begins to settle to the lowest portion of the body,a process known as algor mortis.

Accepted Answer

The process described is known as livor mortis. Algor mortis refers to the cooling of the body after death.

Question 17

A person's body temperature is normally 98.6 degree Fahrenheit.

Accepted Answer

The average person's body temperature is normally 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, according to medical professionals.

Question 18

Body temperature can also be raised by the victim's excessive body fat or heavy clothing.

Accepted Answer

Excessive body fat or heavy clothing can trap body heat and prevent its dissipation, raising the body temperature of the victim.

Question 19

In all homicide situations,the first officer on the scene has several principle concerns.However,the responding officer does not have to determine if the victim is dead or alive-that is for the investigator or medical examiner to determine.

Accepted Answer

The first officer on the scene has the responsibility to determine if the victim is dead or alive as part of assessing the scene and providing immediate aid if possible. This initial assessment is crucial for offering timely medical assistance to survivors.

Question 20

Smudging indicates that the firearm was close to,but not actually touching,the victim's skin.

Accepted Answer

Smudging occurs when the gun is fired in close proximity to the skin, but not in direct contact. This can leave gunpowder residue and other evidence indicating the close range of the shot.

Quiz 9: Death Investigations