What does gross examination examine?

Gross examination refers to the process of analyzing a specimen or sample using only the unaided eye. This method allows forensic professionals to assess visible characteristics, such as size, shape, color, and overall texture, without the need for magnification or specialized equipment. It serves as a critical first step in various forensic analyses, providing essential information and guiding further microscopic examinations or tests, if necessary.

This involves an initial evaluation that can help identify any obvious features or anomalies present in the specimen, which could be vital for subsequent investigations. The focus is strictly on what can be perceived directly without additional tools, distinguishing gross examination from microscopic or more detailed scientific analyses that require further instrumentation and expertise.