(HRI) Processes of Decay Lesson

Processes of Decay

When a person dies, their body decomposes in a predictable pattern if left unhindered. The body breaks down in five stages known as the Stages of Decomposition. These stages are stable enough to be used to estimate how long a body has been dead when the time of death is unknown. As with the other post mortem changes discussed in this unit, the decomposition process can be affected by external factors such as the environment in which the body is located, the temperature, season of the year and availability of insects.  A body decomposes more slowly in cold weather conditions and much quicker in hot climates.

Interactivity: Processes of Decay

How do Forensic Scientists learn about body composition in the field?

Often, they may study cadavers in a medical setting, but many are able to visit and study at a "Body Farm". A body farm is a research facility that accepts donor bodies to participate in research and education of professionals about the decomposition process.  The bodies are left to decompose in various settings and circumstances so that they can be studied. There are 4 of these type facilities in the United States with the largest being about 7 acres in size in Texas. The original "Body Farm" in Knoxville, Tennessee, was created by an Anthropologist named Dr. William Bass.  It is about 2.5 acres in size and is located behind the University of Tennessee Medical Center.  Adipocere, a crumbling waxy material that is composed of body fat from the deceased, was discovered in the 1600s.  It tends to form in anaerobic, hot and humid climates such as the mud at the bottom of a lake or in sealed caskets.  It forms within a month after death and can last for centuries.

[CC BY 4.0] UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED | IMAGES: LICENSED AND USED ACCORDING TO TERMS OF SUBSCRIPTION