MY REFLECTION

When does one realize and discover? Well, if we are going to ask something that is
unknown to us, we always rather seek, do our research, and find out what it is by ourselves.
Doing and taking the initiative to “find out” what this new information is and to understand
it further. Well, let’s start with the very information that I have taken in about how Ninhydrin
helps develop visible fingerprints.

Ninhydrin aids in revealing fingerprints, as demonstrated when finger impressions

are imprinted on paper. The residue, commonly known as "sweat," left by natural bodily
fluids on the fingers, is sufficient to create these prints. Ninhydrin functions as a solvent,
facilitating the visibility of the prints by causing them to turn purple as a result of the reaction
between the amino acids in the sweat and the chemical. However, to make the marks visible,
the finger impressions must first be soaked in the chemical solution. Ninhydrin, globally
utilized by forensic scientists for fingerprint collection since 1954, is recognized globally as
Ruhemann's purple due to its remarkable efficiency in producing visible purple fingerprints.
The technician's approach to the demonstration clearly illustrates a thorough attention to
detail and careful execution, resulting into a flawless and clear evidence where the
fingerprint impressions are prominently displayed, untouched by those handling them. I find
it intriguing how they devised the procedure for collecting these marks and uncovered the
scientific principles behind it, a discovery that greatly aids investigators and those in search
of answers and information.

It took me a moment to become intrigued by the video, particularly as someone

aspiring to become an investigator. I saw it as a valuable opportunity to observe firsthand
how a forensics technician thoroughly manages evidence in the laboratory to extract crucial
information. I imagine myself in such a setting, actively learning and demonstrating the
precise skills required for forensic investigation, filled me with awe. It's an exhilarating
realization that I'm actively progressing toward my dream of becoming a Forensics
Investigator.