How can silver nitrate images be developed?

Silver nitrate images can be developed either chemically or with light, which is why this choice is correct. The development process takes advantage of the light-sensitive properties of silver compounds. When silver nitrate is applied to a surface and exposed to light, a chemical reaction occurs, leading to the formation of a visible image. This can also be enhanced chemically through the application of reducing agents that convert the silver ions to metallic silver, providing a means to visualize the latent prints.

The method of using light relies on the exposure of the silver nitrate to ultraviolet or visible light, initiating a reaction that makes the image visible. Chemically, various solutions can be applied that cause the latent image to become visible by reducing silver ions to their metallic form.

Other options imply limitations that do not accurately reflect the methods available for developing silver nitrate images. For example, increasing temperature alone, or relying only on physical methods or heat sources, would not cover the broad range of chemical reactions and light exposure techniques that facilitate the development process in forensic applications. These alternatives do not encompass the full capability of silver nitrate in latent print development.