Physical evidence can be characterized as what two types?

Physical evidence can be characterized as either obvious or latent. This classification helps differentiate between types of evidence found at a fire scene. Obvious evidence refers to physical items or conditions that are immediately visible and can be easily identified by investigators, such as burn patterns, charred materials, or debris scattered from a fire incident. These types of evidence are crucial for establishing the context and understanding the scenario surrounding the fire.

Latent evidence, on the other hand, requires certain techniques to make it visible or identifiable. This can include things such as fingerprints, trace evidence, or chemical residues that may not be immediately observable to the naked eye. Investigators often need to use specialized tools or methods, such as chemical reagents or enhancement techniques, to properly collect and analyze this type of evidence.

Recognizing the distinction between these two categories is vital for conducting thorough fire investigations, as both visible and latent evidence can provide significant insights into the cause and origin of a fire.