Final answer:
The difference between radial and concentric glass fractures lies in their patterns; radial fractures look like the spokes of a wheel emanating from the impact point, while concentric fractures are circular rings around the point of impact.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between radial fractures and concentric fractures in glass is based on the pattern that each type of fracture creates upon impact. Radial fractures occur as a series of cracks that move outward from the point of impact, similar to the spokes of a wheel. On the other hand, concentric fractures are circular cracks that form around the point of impact, resembling concentric circles.
When investigating a damaged piece of glass, determining whether a fracture is radial or concentric can provide insight into the order of impacts as well as the direction and type of force applied. Radial fractures typically form first, followed by concentric fractures. If you see both radial and concentric fractures, it usually indicates multiple impacts. Moreover, radial fractures tend to form on the side of the glass opposite to where the impact occurred, whereas concentric fractures tend to form on the same side as the impact.