A tenprint card with a primary classification of 32/32 signifies that all fingerprints are which pattern?

The classification of a tenprint card with a primary classification of 32/32 indicates that all the fingerprints on the card are whorls. In the Henry classification system, which is commonly used in fingerprint analysis, the numbers indicate the pattern of the fingerprints of each finger.

In this system, the primary classification represents the arrangement of different types of fingerprint patterns (loops, whorls, and arches) among the ten fingers. Specifically, a classification of 32/32 means that all tenprints fall into the category of whorls. This conclusion is drawn from the fact that whorl patterns are assigned the highest value in this classification system, and having both numerator and denominator as 32 confirms the presence of only whorls in all fingers.

Understanding this classification is essential for forensic professionals, as it helps in quickly identifying the general characteristics of fingerprints when comparing them to known patterns. Whorls consist of circular or spiral patterns, which allows for distinguishing these prints from other types that may have different characteristics such as loops or arches.