Embalming and Mortuary Chemistry Flashcards
7 cards from real BMS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Embalming and Mortuary Chemistry flashcards as text
Which chemical reaction is primarily responsible for the cross-linking of proteins during formaldehyde embalming?
Answer: Methylol bridge formation between amino groups
Formaldehyde reacts with free amino groups on proteins to form methylol intermediates that bridge adjacent protein chains, creating cross-links that firm tissue.
A body with a blood pH of 5.8 due to acidosis will require what embalming fluid adjustment?
Answer: Increased buffer content in arterial fluid
Acidotic tissues consume aldehyde rapidly and resist preservation, so buffered arterial fluid helps neutralize acid and stabilizes fixation chemistry.
What is the primary purpose of using a co-injection fluid alongside arterial embalming solution?
Answer: To condition the vascular system and improve fluid distribution
Co-injection fluids contain surfactants, anticoagulants, and conditioners that open capillaries and improve even distribution of the primary arterial solution.
Cavity embalming fluid typically contains a much higher index of formaldehyde than arterial fluid. What is the typical range for cavity fluid index?
Answer: 35–50 index
Cavity fluids generally range from 25–50 index because they must penetrate and fix organ masses that are not reached by the vascular system.
Which embalming complication arises when excessive amounts of humectant cause tissues to remain too moist and soft after embalming?
Answer: Waterlogging
Waterlogging occurs when hygroscopic humectants draw and retain too much moisture, leaving tissues swollen, soft, and poorly preserved.
In mortuary chemistry, what is the function of a 'modifying agent' added to arterial embalming fluid?
Answer: To slow or adjust the rate of formaldehyde fixation
Modifying agents such as methanol or certain alcohols regulate how quickly formaldehyde fixes tissue, preventing over-hardening or uneven preservation.
Which chemical property of glutaraldehyde makes it a more potent cross-linker than formaldehyde?
Answer: It is a dialdehyde capable of bridging two protein chains simultaneously
Glutaraldehyde's two reactive aldehyde groups allow it to bridge proteins on both ends simultaneously, creating denser cross-links than single-ended formaldehyde.