Transient evidence can include which of the following as a valid example?

• A. The temperature of coffee in a mug
• B. The color of a shirt
• C. The weight of a package
• D. The taste of water

Answer: (A)

Transient evidence is information that is temporary and can disappear or change quickly, so it must be captured right away. The temperature of coffee in a mug fits this because it changes as the liquid cools and could be altered or lost if you wait. The color of a shirt is a stable characteristic that won’t vanish in minutes, so it isn’t transient. The weight of a package is a fixed attribute unless something actually alters it, so it’s not typically considered transient. The taste of water is subjective and not a reliable, preservable property at a scene. So the coffee temperature is the best example of transient evidence.