High School

After investigating a recent murder, the forensic scientist has determined that the DNA found at the crime scene and the suspect’s DNA is a 99.9 percent match. Based on this evidence, what can the scientist most likely conclude?

A. The suspect was most likely at the crime scene.
B. The suspect was not at the crime scene.
C. The suspect and the victim are identical twins.
D. The suspect is related to the victim.

Answer :

Final answer:

A forensic scientist can conclude that a suspect was likely at the crime scene if their DNA is a 99.9 percent match to DNA found there, as DNA is unique to individuals except for identical twins.

Explanation:

Based on the evidence that the DNA found at the crime scene is a 99.9 percent match to the suspect's DNA, the forensic scientist can most likely conclude that the suspect was most likely at the crime scene.

DNA analysis is a powerful tool in forensic science for establishing identity, due to the unique nature of DNA sequences in individuals, with the exception of identical twins.

In forensic cases, investigators compare DNA samples from the crime scene with those of suspects to establish a match, as seen in the use of DNA evidence in both criminal investigations and paternity cases.