What type of evidence is described as tangible and capable of being sensed by touch?

Physical evidence is classified as tangible and can be directly perceived through our senses, particularly touch. This type of evidence includes objects or materials that can be collected and examined in a forensic context, such as fingerprints, blood samples, firearms, and other items that can physically contribute to an investigation. The tangible nature of physical evidence makes it crucial in criminal investigations as it can provide direct connections to an event, person, or crime scene.

For instance, physical evidence can be crucial in establishing links between individuals and crime scenes through items they may have left behind or interacted with. The reliability and objectivity of physical evidence also make it a key component in court proceedings, as it provides a concrete basis for arguments rather than relying solely on testimony or inference.

In contrast, trace evidence refers to small, often microscopic materials that may be transferred during a crime, circumstantial evidence involves indirect evidence that suggests a fact but doesn’t prove it outright, and documentary evidence includes written or recorded materials relevant to a case. These other types of evidence, while certainly important, do not have the same tangible qualities that define physical evidence.