AFIS converts fingerprints into digital _ to compare with fingerprints from a large database. Question 3Select one: a. vectors b. ridgelets c. moments d. minutiae
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: d. minutiae
Explanation:
AFIS, or Automated Fingerprint Identification System, is a computerized system used by law enforcement and forensic agencies to store, retrieve, and compare fingerprint data. When a fingerprint is captured—either from a crime scene or a live scan—it is converted into a digital representation that allows for efficient and accurate comparison with fingerprints stored in a large database.
The most critical part of this digital conversion is the identification and analysis of minutiae.
What are Minutiae?
Minutiae are the tiny, unique details found in fingerprint patterns. They include features such as:
- Ridge endings: where a ridge ends abruptly.
- Bifurcations: where a single ridge splits into two.
- Dots: small isolated ridges.
- Short ridges or islands: small ridges not connected to other ridges.
These features are highly specific to each individual and remain consistent over time, making them ideal for biometric identification.
Why Minutiae?
AFIS does not store full fingerprint images for comparison in most cases. Instead, it extracts and records the relative position and orientation of the minutiae points in a digital format. This data is then used to match against other fingerprints in the database using pattern recognition algorithms. The system compares the geometry and spatial relationships of the minutiae points rather than the entire fingerprint image, which makes the matching process faster and more efficient.
Other Options:
- a. Vectors: In general computing, vectors can store data, but they are not specific to fingerprints.
- b. Ridgelets: A mathematical concept used in image processing, but not standard in fingerprint identification.
- c. Moments: Refer to statistical measures in image analysis, but not used directly in AFIS matching.
Thus, the correct and most accurate term is minutiae.