Which fingerprint pattern ranks as the second most common?

The second most common fingerprint pattern is whorls. Whorls consist of ridge patterns that form circular or spiral configurations, often resembling a whirlpool. This pattern typically features one or more deltas and is categorized into several subtypes, such as plain whorls and central pocket loops. Although whorls are less frequent than loops, they represent a significant portion of fingerprint patterns.

In contrast, loops are the most prevalent fingerprint type and are characterized by ridges that enter from one side, loop around, and exit from the same side. Arches, another fingerprint category, are distinct as they have ridges that rise in the center and flow outwards in a wave-like manner, and they are found less frequently than both loops and whorls. Spirals, while they may sound relevant, are not recognized as a standard fingerprint classification in forensic science and thus do not rank in common fingerprint patterns.