What differentiates latent fingerprints from patent fingerprints?

Latent fingerprints are formed by the natural oils and sweat present on a person's skin, making them typically invisible to the naked eye when left on a surface. To make these fingerprints visible, special techniques such as dusting with powders, chemical treatments, or alternate lighting are used. This process is vital in crime scene investigations, where latent prints can serve as crucial evidence.

In contrast, patent fingerprints are already visible, as they are created when fingers leave a mark due to substances like ink, blood, or grease on a surface. Although they can be seen without additional measures, differentiating between the two types is essential for properly processing and collecting evidence at crime scenes.