A physician who performs an autopsy when a death might have
been caused accidentally or intentionally. In some jurisdictions,
the Medical Examiner may also serve as the coroner.

The chemical reaction processes of breaking down molecules
for energy and of using simple building blocks to build up more
complex molecules needed for growth and repair

Separates the left atrium from the left ventricle

A group of atoms held together by chemical bonds.

contains the brain, brain stem, spinal cord, and nerves. The ner-
vous system is responsible for receiving, interpreting, and reacting
to signals from inside and outside the body

A substance that the body needs to maintain life and health, such
as proteins, lipids, vitamins, and minerals

A collection of tissues in an organism that performs a specific
function, such as the heart, brain, skin, and liver

A group of organs that work together to perform one or more
functions

Muscles located in the ventricles that attach to the cusps of the
tricuspid and mitral valves via the chordae tendinae

mechanical act of breaking down food into smaller parts, like when
you chew

The time when the decedent's vital functions actually ceased

quick tests that indicate if a type of substance is present but cannot
specifically identify a substance

Part of the circulatory system in which deoxygenated blood moves
from the right atrium of the heart to the lungs (through arteries) to
become oxygenated and then returns to the left side of the heart
(through veins)

Permits blood to flow into the pulmonary artery from the right
ventricle

The blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to
the left atrium.

Chamber that receives deoxygenated blood from the vena cava.

The chamber that receives deoxygenated blood from the right
atrium and pumps it to the lungs

the stiffening of joints and muscles after death

The second largest vein in the human body. Returns blood to the
right atrium from the upper half of the body.

A group of organs in a body that work together to perform a
specific function.

The series of vessels that bring oxygenated blood from the heart
to tissues and return deoxygenated blood from the tissues back
to the heart

An integrated group of cells with a common function and/or struc-
ture

A brain dysfunction caused by an outside force to the head.

Separates the right atrium from the right ventricle

A body structure that temporarily closes a passage or orifice, or
permits movement of fluid in only one direction

A vessel that returns blood—typically deoxygenated—to the
heart.

A lower chamber of the heart where blood exits. The heart has
two ventricles: the left ventricle connects to the aorta and the right
ventricle connects to the main pulmonary artery (or pulmonary
trunk)

fibrous cords that attach to the tricuspid and mitral valves