Determining Time of Death Evidence

What is forensic entomology primarily used for in a police investigation?

• Identifying the cause of death

• Estimating the time of death

• Determining the identity of the deceased

• Analysing blood spatter patterns

Answer explanation

Forensic entomology is primarily used for estimating the time of death by studying insect activity on decomposing remains, which helps investigators establish a timeline for the crime.

Which insect is most commonly associated with forensic entomology in determining the time of death?

• Ants

• Butterflies

• Blowflies

• Bees

Answer explanation

Blowflies are the primary insects used in forensic entomology to estimate the time of death. They are attracted to decomposing bodies and their life cycle stages provide crucial information for determining post-mortem intervals.

How does body temperature change after death?

• It remains constant

• It increases

• It decreases

• It fluctuates randomly

Answer explanation

After death, the body temperature decreases due to the cessation of metabolic processes. This cooling continues until the body reaches the ambient temperature, making 'It decreases' the correct choice.

What is the term used to describe the cooling of the body after death?

• Rigor mortis

• Algor mortis

• Livor mortis

• Pallor mortis

Answer explanation

The term 'algor mortis' refers to the cooling of the body after death. It occurs as the body loses heat to the environment, while 'rigor mortis' refers to the stiffening of muscles, 'livor mortis' to pooling of blood, and 'pallor mortis' to paleness.

Which of the following factors can affect the rate of body cooling after death?

• Ambient temperature

• Body weight

• Clothing

• All of the above

Answer explanation

All of the listed factors—ambient temperature, body weight, and clothing—can influence the rate of body cooling after death. Therefore, the correct answer is 'All of the above'.

What is the general rule of thumb for body temperature decrease after death?

• 1°C per hour

• 2°C per hour

• 0.5°C per hour

• 3°C per hour

Answer explanation

The general rule of thumb for body temperature decrease after death is approximately 1°C per hour. This rate can vary based on environmental conditions, but 1°C per hour is a widely accepted estimate.

Which stage of decomposition is characterised by the presence of maggots?

• Fresh

• Bloat

• Active decay

• Dry remains

Answer explanation

The active decay stage is marked by significant decomposition and the presence of maggots, which feed on the decaying tissue. This stage follows the bloat phase and is crucial for the breakdown of organic matter.

What is the primary purpose of estimating the time of death in a police investigation?

• To determine the cause of death

• To establish a timeline of events

• To identify the deceased

• To locate the crime scene

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of estimating the time of death is to establish a timeline of events. This helps investigators understand the sequence of actions leading up to the death, which is crucial for solving the case.

Which of the following is NOT a method used to estimate the time of death?

• Forensic entomology

• Body temperature analysis

• DNA profiling

• Rigor mortis assessment

Answer explanation

DNA profiling is used for identifying individuals, not for estimating time of death. In contrast, forensic entomology, body temperature analysis, and rigor mortis assessment are all methods that help determine the time of death.

What is the significance of the presence of blowfly eggs on a corpse?

• Indicates the cause of death

• Suggests the time of death

• Confirms the identity of the deceased

• Determines the location of death

Answer explanation

The presence of blowfly eggs on a corpse is significant as it suggests the time of death. Blowflies are among the first insects to arrive at a decomposing body, and their life cycle can help estimate how long the body has been deceased.