Criminalistics is the scientific study and application of physical evidence in criminal investigations. It involves the collection, preservation, and analysis of various types of evidence, such as fingerprints, DNA, fibers, firearms, and trace materials, to help solve crimes. Criminalists use techniques from multiple scientific fields, including chemistry, biology, physics, and engineering, to analyze evidence and link it to suspects, victims, or crime scenes. The goal is to provide objective, reliable findings that can be used in court to support or refute claims made by law enforcement, prosecutors, or defense attorneys.