An analysis of the characteristics of human body decomposition over time in various settings.
Written in 2004; 2,933 words; 11 sources; MLA; $ 86.95
Paper Summary:
This paper examines taphonomy, the branch of science that investigates the decomposition process of the human body. It encompasses the study of phenomena such as biostratinomy, decomposition, diagenesis, and epibiont encrustation. A definition of the term 'decomposition' describes the process whereby the body is reduced into simpler forms of matter. The paper explains that the process of decomposition is affected in varying degrees by a number of factors. These include the following aspects in the order of their commonly assumed importance with regard to the rate of the decomposition process: temperature, bacteria, access by insects, burial and depth of burial, access by carnivores or rodents, humidity or dryness, body size and weight, and clothing.
From the Paper:
"Rigor Mortis sets in within four hours of death. This is caused by the lack of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which provides the energy required for muscle contraction and relaxation. ((McLemore, J. 1993) Rigor Mortis is essentially the state that the dead body achieves when the oxygen supply to the muscles ceases. However, the cells within the body continue with anaerobic respiration. The result of this process is the production of lactic acid which causes stiffening of the muscles in Rigor Mortis. After 36 hours, depending on temperature and various other variables and circumstances, rigor mortis ceases. (Decomposition) At this time the cells in the body die and various enzymes are released which precipitate the process of decomposition."
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