In the context of latent print lifting, what is meant by "lifting"?

In the context of latent print lifting, "lifting" refers specifically to the process of transferring a latent print that has been made visible, often using a powder or other enhancement methods, onto an adhesive material such as tape. This allows for the preservation and collection of the fingerprint without damaging the original surface it was found on.

Once the latent print is made visible, typically through the application of powder or other chemicals, the lifting process involves applying an adhesive material over the print. When the tape is removed, the print is adhered to the surface of the tape, effectively capturing the pattern of ridges and minutiae for analysis and comparison in forensic investigations. This method allows investigators to preserve delicate prints that might otherwise be lost or destroyed.

The other options pertain to related concepts in latent print examination but do not accurately capture the definition of "lifting." For instance, removing the print from the surface could imply damaging the original surface, while recovering the latent image with chemicals focuses on visualization rather than collection. Documenting the print visually is an important step for record-keeping but does not encompass the physical transfer of the print to a collection medium.