The Evolution of Human Bones During Cremation: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Cremation and Its Impact on Human Bones

Cremation is a widely practiced method of disposing of human remains, particularly in contemporary society. The process involves exposing the body to intense heat, often within a specialized furnace. However, the journey of human bones during cremation is not a straightforward one.

Understanding the Cremation Process

There are various ways in which bodies can be exposed to fire, including house fires, car fires, bonfires, self-immolation, accidental burns, and homicide. However, most modern cremations are performed in a specialized furnace designed for this purpose. This process can be quite intense, leading to significant changes in the physical structure of human bones.

Bone Fracture and Shaping

Depending on the intensity and duration of the heat, bones can bend and fracture. One of the most notable areas affected is the face. Due to the intricate shaping of facial bones and the presence of sinuses, these bones are particularly susceptible to fracture. The maxilla, cheekbones, and orbital sockets are all areas that can be severely damaged or even shattered during the cremation process. In some cases, the brain, if still in situ, can cause the skull to crack due to the rapid vaporization of water. This phenomenon is easier to visualize with the help of a bone chrono-visual, which indicates the general burn patterns of the human skeleton, with dark red areas representing the first to burn and blue areas the last.

The Organic and Inorganic Components of Bones

During the cremation process, the organic part of the bones, comprising cells and matrix proteins, is largely destroyed and turns into smoke. This component typically makes up about one-third of the bone's weight. The inorganic part, including mostly calcium phosphate, remains behind and constitutes about two-thirds of the bone matter. After the cremation process, the bones retain this brittle, light, and fragmented state.

Final Processing of Cremains

Most modern crematories offer the service of grinding the remains to a coarse dust or even finer particles. This ash can then be scattered, buried, or kept in a memorial urn. The grinding process is often facilitated by a specialized machine called a cremulator. In some low-budget scenarios, the remains may be left in a more fragmented state, as was the case with a friend's brother's funeral, where the remains were poured into a coffee can and buried in a simple hole in the ground.

Additional Information

For those interested in learning more about the cremation process and its effects on bones, there are several resources available, including articles on all about cremation ashes, studies on determining the sex of cremated individuals, and videos showcasing the entire process from furnace to cremulator, like this informative video.

Remember, the process of cremation can be graphic and may not be suitable for all viewers. It's important to approach this topic with sensitivity and respect.

Photo Credits: All photos used in this article are credited to the corresponding sources. Further explanatory text is included upon request.