Which method is commonly used to detect gunshot residue on hands?

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a highly sensitive technique that can detect trace elements, making it suitable for identifying gunshot residue. Gunshot residue (GSR) often contains elements such as lead, barium, and antimony, which are the primary components of many firearm ammunition primers. ICP-MS allows for the precise quantification of these metals on hands and surfaces, making it an effective method in forensic investigations.

In the context of gunshot residue analysis, ICP-MS can detect very low levels of these elements, thereby providing reliable evidence that a person may have discharged a firearm or has been near a discharged weapon. This capability to analyze multiple elements simultaneously increases its efficiency in forensic applications.

Other methods on the list serve different analytical purposes or may not be as effective for detecting gunshot residue. For instance, Gas Chromatography is typically used for separating and analyzing compounds that can be vaporized without decomposition, which might not be as effective for solid residues like metals. Mass Spectrometry, while powerful, often needs to be coupled with another separation technique to effectively analyze complex mixtures, whereas Electrophoresis is generally used for separating biomolecules based on their size and charge rather than metallic residues.