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What are bog bodies?
What are bog bodies?
Bog bodies are bodies found in acidic raised bogs that have a conserving effect on material, helping to slow down the disintegration processes.
What contributes to the preservation of human remains in bogs?
What contributes to the preservation of human remains in bogs?
The sphagnum moss does not have any effect on the preservation of bog bodies.
The sphagnum moss does not have any effect on the preservation of bog bodies.
False
Bog bodies are commonly found in ______, Denmark and Germany.
Bog bodies are commonly found in ______, Denmark and Germany.
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Match the following items related to bog bodies:
Match the following items related to bog bodies:
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What is usually the first action taken when a bog body is discovered?
What is usually the first action taken when a bog body is discovered?
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Study Notes
Treatment and Display of Human Remains
- Bog bodies are human remains discovered in acidic raised bogs that preserve materials containing keratin such as skin, hair, and nails.
- Acidic environments slow down decomposition, aiding the preservation of internal organs and organic materials.
- Raised bogs contain sphagnum moss, which is 85-98% water and contributes to the high acidity necessary for preservation.
- While alive, sphagnum moss decomposes and produces polysaccharides and sphagnan, which help preserve remains:
- Humic acid released by sphagnum moss removes calcium, enhancing skin preservation.
- Sphagnan inhibits further decay of organic materials.
- The acidic composition is further influenced by antibiotics and hydrogen ions secreted by sphagnum moss.
- Ideal conditions for natural mummification of human remains are created by the bog's properties.
- Bog bodies are frequently found by accident, typically dating back to the Iron Age, and are most often discovered in Ireland, Denmark, and Germany.
- Industrial peat cutting has led to numerous discoveries of bog bodies, as machinery inadvertently uncovers remains.
- Procedures post-discovery include:
- Local Gardai are notified for investigations in case of potential missing persons or foul play.
- Forensic pathologists and the National Museum of Ireland's Bog Body Research Team assess the age of the remains.
- If remains are determined to be over 100 years old, they are subjected to further archaeological study.
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Description
Explore the fascinating world of bog bodies in ancient history. This quiz investigates the preservation, discovery, and treatment of human remains found in acidic bogs. Understand the unique conditions that allow these historical artifacts to survive over time.
