MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

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Which fingerprint pattern type is the most common?

Loops
Arches
Whorls
Composite

The correct answer is: Loops

The most common fingerprint pattern type is loops. This is because loops account for approximately 60-65% of all fingerprints found in the general population. They are characterized by ridges that enter from one side of the fingerprint, loop around, and exit on the same side. This pattern is distinct and easily identifiable, making it a primary feature used in fingerprint analysis. Other fingerprint patterns, while present in the population, are less prevalent. Arches, for instance, only make up about 5% of fingerprints, and whorls are found in about 30-35%. Composite patterns can include combinations of features from the other types, but their occurrence is also not as common as loops. The predominance of loops reflects their formation in the development of fingerprints and their efficiency in various functions like gripping and holding.