Police Sergeant Practice Exam

What is the scientific name for the chemical process used to develop latent fingerprints with super glue?

1. Cyanocrylate

2. Cyanocralyde

3. Latent development

4. Print activation

The correct answer is: Cyanocrylate

The scientific name for the chemical process used to develop latent fingerprints with super glue is cyanocrylate. This process involves the vaporization of cyanoacrylate, which is the main component of super glue. When heated, the vapors adhere to the moisture and oils present in latent fingerprints, causing a visible white residue to appear. This residue allows forensic investigators to clearly visualize and analyze the fingerprints that were previously invisible to the naked eye. The other options do not accurately describe the specific chemical process used for developing latent fingerprints. "Cyanocralyde" appears to be a misspelling and does not represent a known chemical or process. "Latent development" is a general term referring to the process of revealing hidden fingerprints but lacks the specificity of identifying the approach with super glue. Similarly, "print activation" does not denote a recognized scientific term in the context of forensic fingerprint development. The precise terminology "cyanocrylate" accurately reflects the chemical nature of the process being described.