Final answer:
Fingerprints submitted to the Bureau of Criminal Identification are used to verify individuals' identities by comparing them to a database of criminal history records. The unique nature of fingerprints makes them a valuable tool for forensic analysis, where DNA fingerprinting is used to match biological samples. A career in forensic science requires in-depth knowledge and a science degree.
Step-by-step explanation:
When fingerprints are submitted to the Bureau of Criminal Identification, they undergo a meticulous process of analysis that links them to criminal history records. The fingerprints are first digitized and then checked against a database which includes records of known criminals. The database, often integrating automated fingerprint identification systems (AFIS), allows for the comparison of fingerprint patterns to determine identity with high precision. Forensic scientists are well-versed in using DNA content analysis from biological samples to create DNA fingerprints, employing methods such as DNA isolation, PCR amplification, and gel electrophoresis for comparison purposes.
The unique fingerprint patterns that humans have, which do not change over time, make DNA fingerprinting incredibly useful in forensic analyses. DNA fingerprinting has applications beyond matching criminal records, such as paternity testing, where a child's DNA fingerprint must have a combination of characteristics inherited from both the mother and father to establish a biological relationship. In forensic science, professionals are required to hold at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant science discipline, reflecting the complexity and technical expertise involved in the field.