MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What are the two types of "loop" fingerprints?

1. Tented and Arched

2. Central Pocket and Accidental Pocket

3. Radial and Ulna

4. Plain and Tented

The correct answer is: Radial and Ulna

The two types of "loop" fingerprints are characterized based on their directionality related to the core of the fingerprint, specifically how they flow around the central ridge. In fingerprint analysis, loops are classified primarily by the way the ridges enter and exit the finger pattern. Radial loops open toward the thumb, while ulnar loops open toward the little finger. This classification is important in forensic science and fingerprint identification because it helps forensic analysts accurately categorize and match fingerprints. Identifying the specific type of loop can assist in narrowing down suspects or confirming identity based on fingerprint patterns. In contrast, the other options reference different classifications or types of fingerprints but do not provide the specific types of loops that accurately categorize them in the context of the question. Central pocket and accidental pocket are not classifications for loops, but rather refer to other patterns found in whorls. Tented and plain also do not match the general characteristics of loops, and while both radial and ulnar are types of loops, this specific pairing does not represent the broader categories recognized in fingerprint classification.