Questions and Answers
What is rigor mortis?
Post mortem stiffening of the body
What is liver mortis?
Post mortem settling of the blood
How long does the liquid condition of blood remain after death?
The first 3-4 hours after death, and becomes fixed after 6-8 hours
Mummification is a form of decomposition that occurs when a body is left in a hot and arid environment.
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What is the first stage of decomposition?
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Venous marbling occurs when the blood decomposes in the vascular system.
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The first to attack a body are flies, specifically blow flies.
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Embalming is the practice of removing blood from the vascular system and replacing it with formalin.
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A body that has undergone an autopsy can still be viewed by the family and have an open casket funeral.
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Even in an unwitnessed collapse, it is possible to determine the time of death.
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Fingernails continue to grow after death.
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Study Notes
Rigor Mortis
- Refers to the post-mortem stiffening of the body, indicating the onset of decomposition.
Liver Mortis
- Known as post-mortem settling of blood, contributing to the examination of the deceased's position at the time of death.
Blood Condition After Death
- Blood remains in a liquid state for the first 3-4 hours post-death.
- After 6-8 hours, blood becomes fixed, marking a change in its condition.
Mummification
- A type of decomposition occurring in hot and arid environments where the body is shielded from direct sun and air, leading to drying.
First Stage of Decomposition
- Venous marbling is recognized as the initial stage of decomposition.
- It is the result of blood decomposition within the vascular system, causing brown discoloration that appears on the skin.
Insect Activity
- Blow flies are the first insects to invade and feed on a corpse, facilitating the decomposition process.
Embalming Process
- Involves removing blood from the vascular system and substituting it with formalin, a preservative.
Autopsy and Funeral Services
- A body that has undergone an autopsy can still be viewed by family members during an open casket funeral, allowing for public mourning.
Time of Death Determination
- It is not always possible to establish the time of death in unwitnessed collapses, indicating limitations in forensic assessments.
Fingernails Post-Mortem
- Contrary to popular belief, fingernails do not continue to grow after death.
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Description
Test your knowledge of key terms in Forensics Chapter 4. This quiz includes essential vocabulary and definitions related to post-mortem changes in the body. Perfect for students studying forensic science and understanding death investigation.
