Forensics

MECHANISM of death

The physiological derangement or biochemical disturbance incompatible with life initiated by the cause of death

MANNER of death

Refers to the circumstances in which the cause of death arose

Factors that affect decomposition

Temperature, Humidity, Location, Clothing, Soil & Insects, Newborns, Exsanguination, Disease, and Dry Conditions

7 factors that help an investigator determine time of death?

Livor Mortis, Rigor, Algor Mortis, Decomposition, Stomach contents, Fuana, Flora

Rigor Mortis

Stiffening of the body after death

Livor Mortis

the gravitational settling of the blood

How long does it take before Livor mortis begin to show and its causes?

shows 2.5 hours after death in which skin turns violet

How long does it take before Rigor mortis begin to show and is set?

Shows between after hours 2-4 and is set at 12 hours

How long until Rigor Mortis disapears?

after hour 24-26

Give 2 examples on why Livor mortis is important?

Time estimate since death and if body was moved

Algor Mortis

The cooling of the body temperature after death

What is Algor Mortis standard rate of cooling? Influences?

1-2 degrees F per hour (Body Mass, and environmental conditions)

A woman is found dead and her body is bright pink. Explain all possible causes. mechanism, and manners of death

Causes- Carbon Monoxide poisoning

Mechanism-Liver failure

Manners- Accident