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The human body is composed of approximately: 64% water, 20% protein, 10% fat, 1% carbohydrate, 5% minerals. [1] The decomposition of soft tissue is characterized by the breakdown of these macromolecules, and thus a large proportion of the decomposition products should reflect the amount of protein and fat content initially present in the body. [4]
Body size is an important factor that will also influence the rate of decomposition. [22] A larger body mass and more fat will decompose more rapidly. [22] This is because after death, fats will liquify, accounting for a large portion of decomposition. [22] People with a lower fat percentage will decompose more slowly. [22]
Generally, the term decomposition encompasses the biochemical processes that occur from the physical death of the person (or animal) until the skeletonization of the body. Putrefaction is one of seven stages of decomposition ; as such, the term putrescible identifies all organic matter (animal and human) that is biochemically subject to ...
"Bass lays out these questions as a guideline to help pinpoint potential time of death and cause of death. The questions Bass asks pertain to such decomposition traits as was the body in the shade or sunlight; was there water involved; or even the different stages associated with death and dying which can help paint part of the forensic picture."
The decomposition of food, either plant or animal, called spoilage in this context, is an important field of study within food science. Food decomposition can be slowed down by conservation. The spoilage of meat occurs, if the meat is untreated, in a matter of hours or days and results in the meat becoming unappetizing, poisonous or infectious.
By contrast, human composting, like natural burial, is a natural process and contributes ecological value by preserving the body's nutrient material. [6] Some have argued that "natural organic reduction respects the human body and spirit, supports rather than sullies the earth, and works with nature rather than against it." [7]
Putrefying bacteria is a broad term used to define several species of bacteria involved in decomposition and fermentation. Putrefying bacteria play a key role in decomposing and fermenting substances within the body as well as the body itself after death. Putrefaction is defined as the final step of decomposition after death. [3]
The microbial timeline of how a body decays is known as the microbial clock. It estimates how long a body has been in a certain place based on microbes present or missing. [22] The succession of bacterial species populating the body after a period of four days is an indicator of minimum time since death. [23]