What type of stain is caused solely by the force of gravity?

A drip stain is specifically formed when a liquid, such as blood, falls due to gravity. This type of stain is created as droplets fall from a source, landing on a surface below. The defining characteristic of a drip stain is that its formation is solely the result of gravity acting upon the liquid, with no other external forces influencing its creation or movement.

In forensic science, understanding the mechanics of various stains aids in reconstructing the events leading to their formation. A drip stain can indicate the position of a victim or the source of the liquid during an incident. Recognizing these patterns is crucial when analyzing crime scenes, as they provide significant clues regarding the events and movements that occurred.

Other types of stains, such as transfer, impact, and smear stains, involve additional forces or interactions. Transfer stains occur when a wet surface comes into contact with another surface, leaving an impression. Impact stains result from the force of an object striking a liquid, causing spatter. Smear stains are created when a surface is dragged or smeared with a liquid. These distinctions are important in forensic analysis but do not apply to the specific mechanics of a drip stain caused solely by gravity.