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A decomposing human body in the earth will eventually release approximately 32 g (1.1 oz) of nitrogen, 10 g (0.35 oz) of phosphorus, 4 g (0.14 oz) of potassium, and 1 g (0.035 oz) of magnesium for every kilogram of dry body mass, making changes in the chemistry of the soil around it that may persist for years. [8]
As such, soil type plays a role, because it will affect the water content of the environment. For example, some soils, like clay soils, retain water better than others, like sandy or silty soils. Further, acidic soils are better able to dissolve the inorganic matrix of hydroxyapatite than basic soils, thus accelerating the disintegration of ...
Nitrogen variations in plants, for example, can be caused by plant-specific reliance on nitrogen gas which causes the plant to mirror atmospheric values. [79] Enriched or higher δ 15 N values can be achieved in plants that grew in soil fertilized by animal waste. [ 79 ]
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]
In archaeology, a biofact (or ecofact) is any organic material including flora or fauna material found at an archaeological site that has not been technologically altered by humans yet still has cultural relevance. [1] Biofacts can include but are not limited to plants, seeds, pollen, animal bones, insects, fish bones and mollusks. [1]
The remains — buried in layers of soil in the collapsed cave — contained the genetic material of cave bears, hyenas and 13 bones of early humans who died some 45,000 years ago.
The conservation and restoration of human remains involves the long-term preservation and care of human remains in various forms which exist within museum collections. This category can include bones and soft tissues as well as ashes, hair, and teeth. [ 1 ]
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