The microscope remains the most important means for identifying and comparing paint specimens. Questioned and known specimens are best compared under a stereoscopic microscope for color, surface texture, and color layer sequence. Compare assigned known and unknown hairs , fabric samples, and paint samples on microscope and stereoscope. Your observations are extremely important. Organize your samples and observations in your lab notebook, with the expectation that it will be scrutinized in a court of law.
Drawings are useful for comparative purposes.
Using the data collected by all of the laboratory criminal investigators summarize the results in your discussion. Explain at least one source of experimental error that might change the outcome of the final results. On the witness stand you are asked to explain to the jury why two different types of microscopes are used. Give your expert witness response.