Which of the following best describes gunshot stippling?

Gunshot stippling, or powder tattooing, refers to the pattern of small abrasions or dots observed on skin that occurs when a firearm is discharged at close range. This phenomenon happens because as the bullet is fired from the gun, tiny particles of gunpowder and other materials are expelled along with the bullet. When these particles come into contact with skin at a distance of a few inches to a couple of feet, they can leave a stippled appearance.

Understanding the context of gunshot stippling is crucial in forensic investigations. It helps to determine the distance from which the shot was fired, which can be vital in reconstructing the events surrounding a shooting incident. In contrast, stippling would not occur at significant distances, nor would it appear as evenly spaced markings – characteristics that would not align with the irregular and scattered nature of the markings left from close-range discharges. Furthermore, while stippling can provide insights, it does not directly indicate the origin of the gunshot itself, making the correct answer integral to understanding firearm-related injuries and the forensic implications involved.