What distinguishes pressure distortion from deposition distortion?

The distinction between pressure distortion and deposition distortion is pivotal in understanding how fingerprints can be altered when an impression is made. Pressure distortion occurs when an external force is applied to a latent print, causing the ridges and patterns to be distorted in relation to the surface they are on. This type of distortion is typically seen on the lateral plane, as the pressure may compress or elongate the ridges depending on how forcefully the print is made and the surface characteristics.

In contrast, deposition distortion generally refers to changes that happen at the moment of deposition of the print, which may not necessarily relate to pressure applied later. This means that the impact of pressure distortion is directly associated with the manner in which the latent print interacts with the surface due to applied force, making the lateral aspect a key characteristic.

Understanding this concept is crucial for forensic analysis, as it helps examiners interpret the way a print has been transferred and may lead to more accurate conclusions about the origin and nature of the print itself.