What can a criminalist determine when examining hair?

When examining hair, a criminalist can apply various analytical techniques to gain insights about the sample. One of the primary determinations is whether the hair is of human or animal origin, which is crucial in forensic investigations since it can help narrow down suspects or link a suspect to a crime scene.

Additionally, a criminalist can assess the hair's condition—such as whether it has been treated (e.g., dyed or permed) or forcibly removed, which can suggest potential violence or struggle. This information is vital for understanding the context of a crime and can offer critical clues regarding the events that transpired.

While other options mention aspects of hair analysis, they are limited in scope. For instance, determining only the length, color, or the presence of DNA does not encompass the broader range of information that can be concluded from a thorough examination of hair. Therefore, the ability to classify hair as human or animal, as well as to identify its treatment and removal status, provides comprehensive insights that contribute significantly to forensic investigations.