Do people decay once they are in the coffin?

Question

If so how long does it take? I know that they have an embalming fluid put in them for the funeral but does that eventually come out or desolve? Is that similar to a perservative?

Answer 1

Yes, bodies decay in their caskets after time. The purpose of embalming (modern ) is for sanitation and for viewing. Embalming fluid is injected into an artery and blood , lymph and cellular fluids come out of a designated vein by pressure, therefor infusing the body for preservation.

The formaldehyde used in the preparation coagulates protein. That is why a body feels stiff to the touch.

As for decay to the gross anatomy student, have the embalmers at the medical school check their chemical mix. The bodies in a medical school environment should be prepared to last for at least 2 years.

Answer 2

Even with the embalming fluid, the body will eventually begin to decay. I am taking a Gross Anatomy course right now and despite the embalming fluid they put on our cadavers a few of them starting to decay a little bit.

Answer 3

Depends on how well the body has been embalmed and yes there is decay and breakdown of the skin, fat and muscle. Embalming fluid is a sort of preservative, yes, but it does not last forever like the Egyptian mummies.

Answer 4

Yes, people do decay. Even with embalming, after a year or so, all soft tissue has decayed--bones, stronger tissue, nails and hair tend to remain for much longer (decades at least). Also, it depends whether or not a grave liner is used. Concrete grave liners protect the coffin from the elements.

Answer 5

Part of the problem is that will all the preservatives people have gulped down in their lifetime, people decompose slower, with or without embalming fluid

Answer 6

Part of the problem is that will all the preservatives people have gulped down in their lifetime, people decompose slower, with or without embalming fluid . i hope this helps you .

Answer 7

I don't know but what an interesting question. In biology that stinky stuff preserved the frogs so you'd think it would in humans also. I wonder if there is a time frame where it works off...hmmm and maybe they drain it from the body before burial and then reuse it. Geeeee..I wanna know too. Morbid us?

Answer 8

yes they do decay once there in the coffin but it takes a coule of months !!!! yes eventually that fluid does wear off the dead body!!!

Answer 9

Yes. Don't you watch TV?

Answer 10

Of what possible use is such information?? Ashes to ashes...Dust to dust. LIVE LIFE!!!