Forensic Death Investigation

Front

What is the rate of heat loss in the first 12 hours after death?

Back

1.4 °F/hour (0.78 °C/hr)

Front

What does rigor mortis mean?

Back

Death stiffness

Front

What is one of the five means by which someone dies?

Back

Manner of death

Front

What does PMI stand for in forensic terms?

Back

Postmortem Interval

Front

How many hours after death does rigor mortis peak?

Back

12 hours

Front

What is the definition of 'cause of death'?

Back

The specific injury or disease that leads to death.

Front

What is the definition of 'mechanism of death'?

Back

The physiological process that leads to death.

Front

What is the significance of the postmortem interval (PMI)?

Back

It helps determine the time of death.

Front

What is livor mortis?

Back

The pooling of blood in the lowest parts of the body after death.

Front

What factors can affect the rate of body cooling after death?

Back

Environmental temperature, body size, clothing, and body fat.