(Q4) Decomposition

Question 1

Decomposition

Answer 1

• The final post-mortem change
• A progressive, degenerative tissue change in which there is a reduction of the complex body substances and ultimately to the component elements

Question 2

Processes involved in decomposition

Answer 2

• Autolysis
• Hydrolysis
• Putrefaction
• Decay

Question 3

Autolysis

Answer 3

• Self-digestion or self-destruction of the body by autolytic enzymes
• A type of decomposition and is considered a chemical change
• While living and shortly after death, cells are still producing enzymes.
• Enzymes have the task of breaking down nutrients into a form that the cells can use
• When nutrients are depleted, the enzymes break down the very cells that produced them

Question 4

Hydrolysis

Answer 4

• A chemical reaction in which a substance is broken down or dissociated by water
• May be defined as the decomposition of tissue cause by molecules of water; splitting by water

Question 5

Putrefaction

Answer 5

• The decomposition of proteins by the action of enzymes of anaerobic bacteria
• Does not occur as a single action: is a series of progressive steps in which the proteins of the tissues are reduced to simpler and simpler compounds

Question 6

Products of Putrefaction

Answer 6

• Proteins
• Amino Acids
• Amines
• Organic Acids
• Ptomaines
• End Products of putrefaction

Question 7

Ptomines Examples

Answer 7

• Cadaverine
• Putrescine
• Skatole
• Indole

Question 8

End Products of Putrefaction

Answer 8

• Ammonia and ammonia compounds
• Hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen phosphide
• Mercaptans
• Methane
• Phosphoric and Sulfuric Acids
• Hydrogen
• Nitrogen
• Carbon Dioxide
• Water

Question 9

Decay

Answer 9

• The gradual decomposition of dead organic matter by the enzymes of aerobic bacteria
• Because decay occurs under aerobic conditions, the results in compounds are without foul odors

Question 10

Other Decomposition Processes

Answer 10

• Fermentation
• Lypolysis: breakdown of fats
• Saccharolysis: breakdown of sugars