What effect do soft substrates have on friction ridges?

Soft substrates can create molded impressions of friction ridges because they allow for a three-dimensional reproduction of the ridge patterns and details from the skin. Unlike harder surfaces that may only take a two-dimensional print, soft materials can capture the depth and contours of the ridges as they deform upon contact. This makes it possible to retrieve impressions that are more representative of the original friction ridges.

In the context of soft substrates, the texture and pliability can influence the quality of the impression. Softer materials will often deform around the ridges, enabling a more accurate and richer representation of the fingerprint. This characteristic is particularly useful in forensic investigations, as molded impressions can provide more reliable and detailed insights into the identification of individuals.