Which term refers to the raised patterns on human fingers used for identification?

The term that accurately refers to the raised patterns on human fingers used for identification is "friction ridges." These ridges form unique patterns on the fingers and are crucial in the field of forensic science for fingerprinting. Each person's friction ridge pattern is distinct, making them a reliable means of identification. They help in both individual identification and forensic analysis, allowing for the comparison and matching of fingerprints at crime scenes.

While "dermatoglyphics" does relate to the study of the skin patterns, including fingerprints, it encompasses a broader range of skin ridge formations and their applications beyond mere identification, like genetic and medical studies. "Fingerprint patterns" is a more general term but doesn't specifically highlight the distinctiveness of the raised ridges, which is central to the process of fingerprint identification. The term "skin impressions" may refer to any mark left on a surface by skin, lacking the specificity needed to address the unique identification aspect of the raised patterns on fingers.