What is the significance of having a control when testing evidence?

The significance of having a control when testing evidence lies primarily in its role as a baseline for comparison. Controls are fundamental in any scientific testing to ensure that the results obtained during the test can be reliably interpreted. By comparing test results against the control, investigators can ascertain the validity of their findings. If the test results correspond with what is expected from the control, it indicates that the testing is likely accurate.

In forensic science, where precise and reliable results are crucial to investigations and legal proceedings, utilizing a control allows for the detection of any variables that could potentially affect the test outcomes. This careful approach contributes greatly to the overall integrity of the analysis conducted on crime scene evidence.