Post mortem changes

Question 1

Temperature acclimatisation

Answer 1

• not steadily, variables:
• external temp
• clothing and covering
• body size
• body position
• initial temp at death
• nature of death

Question 2

Lividity

Answer 2

• Blood drains to lowest point in the body due to gravity
• pallor at pressure points
• variable onset
• CO poisoning - skin = cherry pink

Question 3

Rigor Mortis

Answer 3

• Stiffening of the body

- due to breakdown of ATP–>ADP

Question 4

Decomposition - 2 processes

Answer 4

1. Autolysis - digestive enzymes eat body

2. Putrefaction - bacteria produce enzymes causing gas formation