What do we call prints that are left when friction ridges come into contact with a surface and transfer body residues?

The prints that are left when friction ridges come into contact with a surface and transfer body residues are referred to as latent prints. These prints are not immediately visible to the naked eye because they are typically composed of oils, sweat, and other bodily substances that leave an impression on a surface. Latent prints require a specific process, such as dusting with a fine powder or using chemical reagents, to enhance their visibility for forensic analysis.

In comparison, plastic prints are three-dimensional impressions left in a soft material like wax or clay, while visible prints, also known as patent prints, are made when a finger coated with a substance such as ink or blood makes a direct impression on a surface. Understanding these distinctions is essential in forensic science for the identification and analysis of fingerprints at crime scenes.