Question

Which of the following are the main groups of fingerprints?

I. Latent
II. Plastic
III. Composite
IV. Visible

Answer 1

Fingerprints have several main groups, including latent, plastic, and visible. Composite fingerprints are not a main group but a combination of different types of fingerprints.

Step-by-step explanation:

Fingerprints are unique patterns formed by ridges on the skin of human fingers. The main groups of fingerprints are:

1. Latent: These are invisible prints left behind on surfaces by sweat and oil on the fingers. They can be made visible using special techniques, such as dusting for fingerprints.
2. Plastic: These are three-dimensional impressions of the finger ridges left in soft materials, such as clay or wax.
3. Visible: These fingerprints are easily seen on surfaces due to the presence of substances like blood, dirt, or ink.

Composite fingerprints are not one of the main groups but rather a term used to describe a fingerprint that combines features of different types, such as a visible print that also includes latent features.