Final answer:
Spectroscopy is a method used for ink differentiation by analyzing the absorption and emission of light by substances to distinguish between visually similar inks. Other methods like handwriting analysis and ink dating serve different purposes and do not analyze the ink's composition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Methods of Ink Differentiation
Among the methods for ink differentiation on similar appearing inks, spectroscopy is the accurate option. Spectroscopy involves the measurement of how different substances absorb or emit light and can be used to distinguish between inks that appear visually similar by analyzing their spectral signatures. This technique is commonly applied in forensic science for document analysis.
In contrast, handwriting analysis might help to differentiate between writers, but it does not analyze the properties of the ink itself. Forensic psychology is concerned with the intersection between psychology and the justice system, and ink dating is used to determine the age of an ink but does not differentiate between inks. The relevant concept of DNA fingerprinting in forensic science involves the use of various techniques, including gel electrophoresis, to create a unique DNA profile that can be used in crime investigations.
Chromatography is another technique used in ink analysis. It separates the components of an ink mixture on a porous medium, such as paper, based on their differing abilities to adhere to the solid phase and to be soluble in the liquid phase, revealing a distinct pattern that can differentiate inks.