Mystery Week: STEM Activity

Fingerprint Analysis 

Materials Needed: 

White paper 

Pencil 

Clear tape 

Magnifying glass (optional) 

Ink pad or washable marker 

Instructions: 

1. Prepare the Paper: 

Take a sheet of white paper and draw several small squares on it. These squares will be where you place your fingerprints. 

2. Create a Fingerprint: 

Rub the side of a pencil on a piece of scrap paper to create a dark patch of graphite. This will act as your "ink pad" if you don't have an actual ink pad. 

Press your finger onto the graphite patch to get it covered in graphite. If you're using an ink pad, press your finger onto the ink pad instead. 

3. Transfer the Fingerprint: 

Carefully press your finger onto one of the squares on the white paper. Make sure to press firmly to get a clear fingerprint. 

Repeat this process for each finger, placing each fingerprint in a separate square. 

4. Lift the Fingerprint: 

To lift a fingerprint, place a piece of clear tape over the fingerprint on the paper. Press down gently to ensure the tape picks up the fingerprint. 

Carefully peel the tape off the paper and stick it onto a clean section of the white paper. This will transfer the fingerprint to the tape. 

5. Examine the Fingerprints: 

Use a magnifying glass to examine the fingerprints closely. Look for unique patterns such as loops, whorls, and arches. Compare the fingerprints to see how each one is different. 

6. Record Your Observations: 

Write down your observations about the different fingerprint patterns. Note any similarities and differences you see. 

Enjoy exploring the science of fingerprint analysis and discovering how detectives use fingerprints to solve crimes! 🕵️‍♂️🔍 

 

Have fun investigating! 🌟