The Short Answer

Do Fingerprints Change?


Listen Later

Welcome to "The Short Answer," where we unravel mysteries and deliver concise explanations. In this episode, we explore the intriguing world of fingerprints with the burning question: "Do Fingerprints Change?"

Join us as we delve into the fascinating realm of these natural identity cards that have played a crucial role in solving countless crimes. From their formation in the 17th week of pregnancy to the intricate patterns that remain unchanged throughout our lives, we uncover the secrets behind fingerprints' uniqueness and permanence.

Discover the surprising impact of external conditions on fingerprints, from the challenges faced by construction workers and those working with chemicals to the effects of age-related skin changes. Learn about rare genetic disorders like Adermatoglyphia, where individuals have completely smooth fingertips, palms, toes, and soles.

In a gripping twist, we explore cases where cancer treatment and other external factors can temporarily erase fingerprints, leaving individuals in unexpected situations. From scars caused by cuts and burns to historical attempts by criminals to alter their fingerprints, we unravel the enduring nature of this natural identification system.

Tune in to "The Short Answer" as we provide clarity on the age-old question: Do fingerprints change? The answer may surprise you!


Music Credits:

Jazz in My Heart by EasyTunes https://elements.envato.com/jazz-in-my-heart-69JHQMW

Sad Jazz by TexasBrother https://elements.envato.com/sad-jazz-DZ7QYWU

Jazz Lounge by EliansProductions https://elements.envato.com/jazz-lounge-SYJJR6R

Cool Mystery Jazz by SCOREWIZARDS https://elements.envato.com/cool-mystery-jazz-68EUPDP


References:

http://www.sciencemag.org/news/2015/06/fingerprints-change-over-time-not-enough-foil-forensics

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/lose-your-fingerprints/

https://www.cse.msu.edu/~rossarun/pubs/FengJainRoss_AlteredFingerprint_TechReport09.pdf

https://www.math.arizona.edu/~anewell/publications/Fingerprint_Formation.pdf


Original Article Link:

https://www.scienceabc.com/humans/fingerprints-unique-change-age-alter-crime-diseases-identification-biometrics.html


Voice Over Artist: John Staughton ( https://www.fiverr.com/jswildwood )

Intro by: Natasha/elevenlabs.io


Follow us on Twitter!

https://twitter.com/abc_science


Follow us on Facebook!

https://facebook.com/sciabc


Follow our Website!

https://www.scienceabc.com


Follow us on Instagram!

https://www.instagram.com/scienceabcofficial/


Follow us on LinkedIn!

https://www.linkedin.com/company/scienceabc

...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

The Short AnswerBy ScienceABC