The process of using a chemical to reveal fingerprints that might not be visible is known as what?

The process of using a chemical to reveal fingerprints that might not be visible is known as developing prints. This encompasses various techniques and methods, including the use of chemical developers that react with substances left behind by a fingerprint, such as sweat or oils, allowing these prints to become apparent.

Developing prints is essential in forensic science as it enhances the visibility of latent fingerprints, which are often not immediately obvious to the naked eye. This process can involve powders, liquids, or techniques that may use heat or vapor to visualize the prints, depending on the surface they are on and the conditions under which they were deposited.

Other choices refer to different aspects of forensic procedures. Fuming involves using vapors from certain chemicals to reveal prints on non-porous surfaces and would be considered a specific method of developing prints rather than the general process itself. Inking is a technique used for making prints from fingers to capture them visually, usually for identification purposes, while highlighting is not a term commonly used in the context of fingerprint analysis.