What are loops that flow in the direction of the ulna bone called?

Loops that flow in the direction of the ulna bone are called ulnar loops. This classification is based on the orientation of the ridges in the fingerprint pattern. In ulnar loops, the ridges enter from the side of the little finger (the ulnar side) and exit on the side of the thumb.

This specific designation is important in fingerprint analysis, as it helps examiners categorize and compare prints effectively. Ulnar loops are one of the most common fingerprint patterns, and understanding their directionality is crucial for identification purposes. Recognizing the flow of loops is fundamental for latent print examiners because it aids in establishing the unique characteristics of a fingerprint, which can be essential for forensic investigations.