Human Remains Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is forensic taphonomy?
The study of what happens to the body after death, including decay, preservation, and fossilization.
What are the five overlapping stages of human decomposition?
Fresh, Bloat, Active, Advanced, Dry Remains
What stage of decomposition is associated with the highest odor production?
Active decomposition
What process begins immediately after death and breaks down cells?
Autolysis
What factor significantly slows decomposition in buried bodies?
Reduced insect/scavenger access and lower temperatures
What are two major environmental factors that affect decomposition rate?
Temperature and moisture
What is adipocere and where does it commonly form?
A waxy substance from fat; forms in moist, anaerobic conditions like clay soil or water.
What is the postmortem interval (PMI)?
The estimated time since death.
Why is PMI hard to determine accurately?
Too many variables affect decomposition rate, especially over time.
What macromolecules contribute to decomposition odor?
Proteins, carbohydrates, lipids
What are some volatile compounds produced by protein breakdown?
Ammonia, cadaverine, putrescine
Ammonia, cadaverine, putrescine
Alkaline soils due to hydroxyapatite stability
What is a clandestine grave?
A secret, hand-dug, shallow burial site typically made during a criminal act.
What type of soil promotes desiccation of soft tissue?
Sandy soil (drains quickly, low moisture retention)
What are signs of vegetation changes at burial sites?
Death of plants, later regrowth, changes in species composition
Why is a multidisciplinary team needed to recover a clandestine grave?
Different forensic and investigative specialties are required (e.g., soil scientists, anthropologists, dog handlers)
What is the first step in searching for clandestine graves?
Aerial or remote sensing to identify possible anomalies
What is ground-penetrating radar (GPR)?
A non-invasive technology that uses EM waves to detect subsurface disturbances
What does LiDAR scanning detect in forensic searches?
Surface elevation changes, especially under tree canopies
What is the primary role of cadaver dogs in grave searches?
To presumptively detect decomposition odors
What does specificity mean in canine detection?
The dog only reacts to its trained target (low false positives)
What does sensitivity mean in canine detection?
The dog can detect target odor even at low concentrations (high true positives)
What is geographic profiling?
An investigative method using spatial patterns of crime to identify potential search areas
Where are clandestine graves most commonly located?
Within 50 ft of a road, in dark/unlit areas, often <4 ft deep
