ASIS International (ASIS) Professional Certified Investigator Practice Exam

Iodine fuming is primarily used to visualize fingerprints on non-porous surfaces. This technique utilizes iodine vapor, which adsorbs onto the oils and residues left behind by the ridges of a fingerprint. When the iodine comes into contact with those residues, it binds to them, making the fingerprint visible. This process is particularly effective on surfaces such as metals, glass, and plastics, which do not absorb moisture like porous materials do.

While options related to fingerprint development on porous surfaces or enhancing blood patterns contain elements pertinent to forensic investigations, they do not accurately describe the specific purpose or effectiveness of iodine fuming. Therefore, acknowledging that iodine fuming is highly effective in revealing fingerprints on non-porous surfaces provides clarity and insight into its practical uses within the field of forensic science. This understanding highlights the importance of selecting the appropriate technique for the specific types of surfaces encountered during an investigation.