Final answer:
To protect evidence and avoid contamination, it's critical to use appropriate protective measures such as aseptic techniques, personal protective equipment, and following strict safety protocols in both laboratory and field settings.
Step-by-step explanation:
To protect evidence and avoid contamination, it is essential to use appropriate protective measures rather than using evidence without any safeguards. This involves a variety of methods, depending on the context and the nature of the evidence. For example, in a chemistry lab, protective measures might include the use of gloves, goggles, and lab coats, as well as following precise procedures for handling and storing chemicals to avoid cross-contamination.
In microbiological studies, employing aseptic techniques is crucial to prevent unwanted microbial contamination. This could range from sterilizing equipment before use to using specialized containment facilities when dealing with hazardous organisms.
Similarly, in field research, scientists must adhere to safety regulations meant to safeguard not just the evidence but also the environment and the scientists themselves. This may include obtaining necessary permits for studying protected species or using specialized equipment, as shown in the example of studying dangerous organisms like the bacteria that cause bubonic plague.