Ruby finds an empty soda can at the scene of a crime. What can she MOST accurately conclude about DNA evidence and the soda can?

A.
There is no chance of finding DNA evidence on a soda can.
B.
The best place to swab for DNA is the inside of the soda can.
C.
She should look for spilled soda on the table to collect saliva.
D.
She should swab the rim of the soda can for possible saliva.

D. She should swab the rim of the soda can for possible saliva.

Tricia notices the VNTRs on a DNA strand. How are these MOST likely to be represented?

A.
as repeated segments
B.
as one unique chromosome
C.
as a buccal swab
D.
as mitochondrial DNA

A. as repeated segments.

To accurately conclude about DNA evidence and the soda can, Ruby can consider the following options:

A. There is no chance of finding DNA evidence on a soda can.
To determine if this statement is accurate, Ruby can conduct further investigation. While it may be less likely to find direct DNA evidence on a soda can due to its smooth surface, there is still a possibility of finding DNA if someone had directly touched or licked the can.

B. The best place to swab for DNA is the inside of the soda can.
To confirm if this statement is accurate, Ruby can refer to forensic techniques. Generally, the inside of a soda can is less likely to have DNA evidence, especially if the can is empty. However, if there are traces of liquid or residual saliva present inside, swabbing the inside may be beneficial.

C. She should look for spilled soda on the table to collect saliva.
This statement suggests that Ruby should collect spilled soda to obtain saliva for DNA analysis. While spilled soda may contain saliva, it is important to note that saliva itself is a better source for DNA rather than the soda itself. If Ruby can collect saliva directly from the soda can or other sources, it would be more reliable for DNA analysis.

D. She should swab the rim of the soda can for possible saliva.
Swabbing the rim of the soda can for possible saliva is a reasonable course of action. Saliva can potentially be found on the rim if someone drank from the can or if their mouth came into contact with it. This would make the rim a good location to collect DNA evidence.

In conclusion, based on the given options, the most accurate conclusion would be D. Ruby should swab the rim of the soda can for possible saliva to collect DNA evidence.