* A whorl is a fingerprint pattern that consists of a circular or spiral ridge pattern.
* Whorls are the most common fingerprint pattern, accounting for about 35% of all fingerprints.
* Whorls are often found on the thumbs and index fingers.
* Whorls are considered to be the most complex and distinctive fingerprint pattern, and they are therefore the most difficult to match.
Loops
* A loop is a fingerprint pattern that consists of a single ridge that enters the fingerprint from one side, curves around, and exits from the same side.
* Loops are the second most common fingerprint pattern, accounting for about 60% of all fingerprints.
* Loops are often found on the middle fingers and ring fingers.
* Loops are less complex than whorls, but they are still relatively distinctive.
Arches
* An arch is a fingerprint pattern that consists of a single ridge that enters the fingerprint from one side and exits from the other side.
* Arches are the least common fingerprint pattern, accounting for about 5% of all fingerprints.
* Arches are often found on the little fingers.
* Arches are the least complex and least distinctive fingerprint pattern.