Which type of fingerprint is created from the residue left on surfaces after contact?

Latent fingerprints are created from the residue of oils and sweat that are naturally present on a person's fingertips and left behind when they come into contact with various surfaces. These fingerprints are often not visible to the naked eye and require specialized techniques, such as powders or chemical treatments, to be made visible during an investigation.

In contrast, plastic fingerprints are three-dimensional impressions left in soft materials, like clay or wax, while patent fingerprints are visible prints left on surfaces such as paper or glass after contact with a colored substance. Visible fingerprints, similar to patent fingerprints, are those that can be seen without any treatment. Therefore, latent fingerprints are specifically the type formed by the transfer of unseen oils and residues, making them the focus of the correct choice in this context.