Forensic ballistics is the study of firearms, ammunition, and the effects they have on materials during a crime. It involves analyzing bullet trajectories, gunshot residue, and firearm characteristics to link weapons to crimes. Forensic ballistics experts examine ballistic patterns, such as rifling marks, to identify the firearm used. They also help determine the distance from which a shot was fired. This discipline plays a critical role in criminal investigations involving shootings and homicides.