What is a key characteristic of latent fingerprints?

Latent fingerprints are primarily characterized by their invisibility until a development process is applied. These fingerprints are created when the natural oils and sweat from the skin leave a residue on a surface, but due to their transparency, they are not immediately perceptible to the naked eye. The development techniques, which can include dusting with powder, chemical treatments, or using specialized lighting, are crucial for revealing these prints for forensic examination.

While there are methods to visualize fingerprints that may be visible under certain conditions or when recorded on specific materials, the defining feature of latent fingerprints is their initial invisibility. This quality distinguishes them from other types of fingerprints, such as patent or impression fingerprints, which can be seen directly. The other options do not align with the key characteristics of latent fingerprints, as they either misrepresent their visibility or suggest they can be processed in the same way as those that are immediately evident.