Question

Gunshot residue lasts for 72 hours on surfaces, so testing at the scene of the crime is not necessary.

A. True
B. False

Answer 1

Gunshot residue does not last for 72 hours on surfaces, so testing at the scene of the crime is necessary for forensic investigation.

Step-by-step explanation:

GSR (Gunshot Residue) does not last for 72 hours on surfaces, so testing at the scene of the crime is necessary. The presence of GSR can help determine the proximity of a firearm when it was discharged and may provide crucial evidence in criminal investigations.

Gunshot residue is composed of particles released from the cartridge and propellant when a firearm is fired. These particles can land on surfaces near the point of discharge. However, GSR can easily be transferred or removed from surfaces through various factors such as touch, airflow, or cleaning within a short period of time.

Forensic experts use specific techniques, such as swabbing or vacuum collection, to collect GSR samples from potential surfaces. These samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis, where they undergo testing to identify the presence of characteristic elements or compounds associated with firearm discharge.