Which two components are primarily considered when dealing with older latent prints?

When dealing with older latent prints, the primary components considered are water and the fatty component. Latent prints, which are created by the natural oils and sweat on the skin, can degrade over time due to environmental factors.

Water is a significant factor because as prints age, the moisture content can evaporate, leading to changes in the components of the print. The fatty component, which includes sebum from the skin, also plays a crucial role in the formation and preservation of latent prints. These fatty substances can adhere to surfaces, but they can also break down or be removed over time, particularly with exposure to elements such as heat, light, or certain cleaning agents.

When evaluating other options, protein and minerals are less significant when focusing specifically on latent prints because these are not the primary substances that make up the latent print itself. While they could potentially play a role in certain contexts, they are not the main components taken into account for older prints. Thus, the combination of water and the fatty component is essential for understanding the degradation and preservation of latent prints over time.