What allows the powder to adhere to the latent fingerprint during the lifting process?

The correct answer emphasizes the role of oils and moisture from the skin in the process of latent fingerprint lifting. When a person touches a surface, they leave behind a residue composed of natural oils, sweat, and other organic substances. These compounds are not only present in the fingerprints but also create a contrast against the background surface.

When fingerprint powder is applied, it adheres to these residues rather than the surface of the material itself. The powder particles cling to the oils and moisture due to physical and chemical interactions, allowing for the visualization of the fingerprint pattern. This methodology is central to forensic practices, as it helps investigators recover and analyze prints that would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye.

Other factors mentioned, such as the strength of adhesives, the type of surface material, and environmental temperature, can influence the overall lifting process but do not directly account for how the powder sticks to the fingerprint itself during the lifting. The oils and moisture provide the necessary medium for the powder to attach effectively, highlighting their significance in latent print recovery.