Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). Assertion (A): Locard’s Principle states that every contact leaves a trace.
Reason (R): Presence of trace evidence is crucial in solving criminal investigations.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
• B. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

Hint:

Locard’s Principle = Foundation of forensic science → Trace evidence always links crime, victim, and suspect.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: Locard’s Exchange Principle is one of the fundamental principles of forensic science. It establishes the idea that whenever two objects come into contact, there is always a transfer of material between them.

Step 1: Analyzing Assertion (A).
The statement “Every contact leaves a trace” is the exact definition of Locard’s Exchange Principle. It is universally accepted in forensic science.
Thus, Assertion (A) is correct.

Step 2: Analyzing Reason (R).
Trace evidence such as hair, fibers, soil, glass, or fingerprints plays a crucial role in linking suspects to crime scenes. This evidence is often microscopic but highly significant.
Thus, Reason (R) is also correct.

Step 3: Establishing the relationship.
The reason explains why Locard’s Principle is important. Because every contact leaves a trace, investigators can collect and analyze trace evidence to solve crimes. Therefore, the reason directly explains the assertion.

Step 4: Evaluating options.
Since both statements are correct and the reason justifies the assertion, the correct choice is option (A). Final Conclusion:
Hence, both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).