What is referred to as the latent print examiner's "chemical workhorse"?

Ninhydrin is known as the latent print examiner's "chemical workhorse" due to its effectiveness in developing latent prints from porous surfaces, particularly paper. When ninhydrin reacts with amino acids present in the sweat residues left by fingers, it produces a colored compound, allowing the latent prints to become visible. This process is vital in forensic science because it can reveal prints that are otherwise invisible when applied to various porous materials.

The reliability and versatility of ninhydrin make it indispensable in the field of latent print examination. While other chemicals listed have their own uses in developing prints on different surfaces, ninhydrin is particularly known for its widespread application and strong performance, which is why it holds the title of a "workhorse" in the chemical processes utilized by latent print examiners.