What should be noted about excessive powder when powdering latent prints?

Excessive powdering when revealing latent prints can indeed lead to lost prints, and this is a crucial aspect to understand in the context of forensic science. When too much powder is applied, it can obscure the fine details of the print, making it difficult or impossible to discern the unique patterns that are necessary for identification. This can compromise the integrity of the evidence and potentially hinder the investigation.

In forensic practice, the goal is to apply just the right amount of powder to ensure the latent print is both visible and retains its detail. Adequate control over the application of fingerprint powder is vital for successful recovery, and understanding the consequences of over-application is key for practitioners in the field.