Final answer:
To capture a footprint in the snow, forensic investigators use casting material like dental stone, sometimes preceded by a preserving spray, to create a lasting replica of the print.
Step-by-step explanation:
The episode you are referring to likely involves a forensic investigator who needs to capture a footprint in the snow as evidence.
Although this specific episode isn't detailed in the provided passages, generally, to capture a footprint in the snow, an investigator might use several methods.
One common approach is to pour casting material, such as dental stone, into the print to create a durable replica once it solidifies.
Before pouring, they may use a spray like snow print wax to help preserve the delicate details of the print.
They need to work delicately and quickly to prevent the snow from melting and distorting the footprint.
As the cast hardens, it captures the details of the footprint, which can later be compared to suspects' footwear.
This type of evidence collection is a meticulous process that requires attention to detail and an understanding of the properties of snow and ice.