Which statement correctly characterizes individual characteristics?

• A. They are shared by group
• B. They are unique to a single source
• C. They are found only in footprints
• D. They are identical across unrelated individuals

Answer: (B)

Individual characteristics are features that are unique to a single source and can be used to identify that source with a high degree of certainty. In forensics, details like fingerprint minutiae, distinctive tool-mark irregularities, or unique wear patterns arise from natural variation and use, making them different from one item to another. That uniqueness is what lets investigators tie evidence to a specific person or object. The statement that these characteristics are unique to a single source best captures this idea. The other ideas describe characteristics that are shared by a group (class characteristics), are limited to footprints, or imply no variation at all—none of which accurately describe how individual characteristics function in identification.