by 
The Curious Bag
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A lie detector, commonly known as a polygraphy, tests your physiological reaction to a series of questions, asked by a trained polygraph examiner. The measurements on the polygraph machine are used to indicate if you are telling the truth or lying.
Function
A lie detector is used by law enforcement agencies to assist in clearing suspects of crimes or to help detect if a potential witness is telling the truth.
Identification
A lie detector consists of rubber tubes placed around the chest and abdominal area that record respiratory activity. Sweat gland activity is recorded by two small metal plates attached to the fingers. Cardiovascular activity is checked with a blood pressure device.
Effects
Lie detector tests are not 100 percent accurate. Habitual criminals and liars have passed polygraphs, and innocent people who become nervous while taking the exam have failed.
Considerations
Polygraph results are admissible evidence in some federal courts and states. There are some states that do not allow polygraph results as evidence.
Famous Ties
Richard Nixon was quoted as saying: "I don't know anything about lie detectors other than they scare the hell out of people."
Source:
Dictionary.law.com: lie detector
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