Time of Death

What factors can help approximate the time of death?

• livor mortis

• rigor mortis

• algor mortis

• stomach contents

• insect activity and degree of decomposition

When does livor mortis begin?

• 10 hours

• 14 hours

• 48 hours

• 2 hours

When is the body in its most rigid state?

• 24 hours

• 4 hours

• 10 hours

• 12 hours

Check all factors the affect algor mortis.

• clothing

• height

• temperature

• wind

• body fat

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS3-4

Time of death is determined by measuring

• rigor mortis

• pupil dilation

• environmental temperature

• core body temperature

Would the contents in the stomach help to establish time of death?

• Yes

• No

This occurs 2-4 hours after death, where the blood pools due to gravity. The area affected is a bluish-red color.

• rigor mortis

• algor mortis

• livor mortis

The body of a runner was found in the park one early, hot summer morning. The ambient temperature was 89°F (far above normal room temperature). The body displayed rigor in the face and neck area. Which of the following is the BEST prediction for TOD?

• 1-2 hours

• 4-6 hours

• 12-14 hours

Post-mortem evaluation to determine time of death

• coroner

• medical examiner

• autopsy

• morgue

True or False. The permanent discoloration of the corpse tell us what position the person was lying in when they died. It also tells us if something was blocking the flow of blood, like a belt or a watch.

• true

• false