Which of the following describes a ballistics expert’s role?

A ballistics expert's role primarily involves studying and matching bullets and firearms. This specialization focuses on the forensic analysis of ballistic evidence, which includes examining the characteristics of bullets and cartridge cases to determine if they were fired from a specific firearm. The expert employs various techniques, such as comparing striations on bullets and analyzing firing mechanisms, to establish connections between a firearm and bullet evidence found at a crime scene.

The other options outline roles that are unrelated to ballistics. Analyzing the effects of drugs on the brain falls within the purview of toxicology, while documenting the crime scene is the responsibility of crime scene investigators. Conducting interviews with suspects is typically the role of homicide detectives or police officers, who gather information to further their investigations. These distinctions help clarify the specialized focus of a ballistics expert within the forensic science field.