Intrinsic ridge shapes and relative pore locations are known as what?

The intrinsic ridge shapes and relative pore locations refer to the finer details of fingerprint features, which fall under the category of third-level ridge detail. This level of detail includes the specific shapes of ridges as they branch, end, or bifurcate, along with the positioning of the pores that are embedded within those ridges.

Third-level ridge detail is crucial in the forensic field because it provides the necessary granularity needed for individualizing a fingerprint. While first and second level detail involve broader patterns and formations of ridges and their arrangements, it is the third level that allows examiners to make definitive comparisons between prints, enhancing overall identification accuracy.

In forensic fingerprint analysis, distinguishing between these different levels of detail is important for the proper interpretation of the prints. First-level details would include the general pattern types (like loops, whorls, and arches), and second-level details would involve broader ridge flow and relationships. However, only the third level incorporates the more intricate characteristics, such as pore locations and ridge shapes, making it essential for precise forensic analysis.