Ballistics is the science of analyzing the movement, behavior, and effects of projectiles, particularly firearms. This field of forensic science involves the examination of bullets, shell casings, guns, and other firearm-related evidence to help investigators determine the type of weapon used, the trajectory of the bullet, the distance between the shooter and the target, and other details about the shooting incident.
The examination of bullets and cartridge cases can provide information about the type of gun used, as well as the distance between the shooter and the target. Forensic examiners can examine the unique markings on bullets and shell casings, known as "toolmarks," to determine if they were fired from a particular firearm. The process of matching toolmarks to a specific firearm is known as ballistic fingerprinting.
The trajectory of the bullet can also provide valuable information to investigators. By examining the entrance and exit wounds on a victim, forensic examiners can estimate the angle and distance of the shot. This information can help investigators reconstruct the crime scene and determine the movements of the shooter and the victim.
Forensic ballistics also involves the study of gunshot residue, which is the residue left behind on the hands and clothing of a shooter after firing a gun. The presence of gunshot residue can provide evidence that a person fired a gun and can help identify the type of gun used.