What type of fingerprint is visible to the naked eye?

The correct choice is patent fingerprints, which are visible to the naked eye. These types of fingerprints are formed when a finger comes into contact with a surface and leaves an impression that is readily observable, often caused by a finger being coated in a substance like ink, blood, or dirt.

These fingerprints stand out not only because they are visibly marked but also because they provide valuable evidence in forensic investigations. In contrast, latent fingerprints require special techniques or chemicals to be made visible, as they are typically invisible and consist of sweat and oils that are naturally present on the skin. Plastic fingerprints also involve three-dimensional impressions left in soft materials but are not always easily seen without the assistance of light or certain angles. Therefore, patent fingerprints are unique in being immediately recognized, making them important in crime scene analysis.