What aspect does edgeoscopy involve during print comparison?

Edgeoscopy involves the examination of specific features of the ridges at their edges to enhance the comparison process during fingerprint analysis. This method is particularly focused on the shapes of the edges of ridges, which can provide distinguishing characteristics that aid in the identification of latent prints.

The analysis of edge shapes is crucial because subtle variations in ridge endings, bifurcations, and other edge formations can serve as unique identifiers for individuals. This approach allows forensic experts to differentiate between prints that may appear similar at a glance, thereby increasing the accuracy of comparisons in latent print analysis.

While ridge count, length and width of prints, and texture of fingerprint patterns are all elements that can be considered in fingerprint analysis, edgeoscopy specifically emphasizes the edges of the ridges, making it a specialized technique within the broader field of fingerprint comparison.