What are latent prints?

Latent prints refer specifically to hidden fingerprints that are not easily visible to the naked eye. These prints are made when the natural oils and moisture from the skin transfer onto a surface, leaving an impression that can be detected and developed using special techniques, such as dusting with powder, fuming with cyanoacrylate, or using chemical reagents.

This definition accurately captures the nature of latent prints, distinguishing them from visible fingerprints, which are easily seen due to substances like ink, dirt, or blood being present. The other choices do not reflect the essential characteristic of latent prints, which is their hidden nature requiring additional steps for visibility and analysis.