BMS BMS Bachelor of Mortuary Science Embalming and Mortuary Chemistry Questions and Answers 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which chemical compound is the primary preservative agent used in arterial embalming fluids?
- Formaldehyde (Correct answer)
- Glutaraldehyde
- Phenol
- Methanol
Correct answer: Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is the principal preservative in arterial embalming fluids due to its ability to cross-link proteins and halt decomposition.
Question 2: What is the purpose of a humectant in embalming fluid?
- To retain moisture in tissues (Correct answer)
- To accelerate firming of tissues
- To mask odors from decomposition
- To increase the germicidal action of the fluid
Correct answer: To retain moisture in tissues
Humectants such as glycerol and sorbitol help retain moisture in embalmed tissues, preventing excessive dehydration and maintaining a natural appearance.
Question 3: What pH range is considered ideal for most arterial embalming solutions?
- 3.0 to 4.5 (Correct answer)
- 5.0 to 6.0
- 7.0 to 7.5
- 8.5 to 9.5
Correct answer: 3.0 to 4.5
Most arterial embalming solutions function optimally in an acidic pH range of approximately 3.0 to 4.5, which enhances formaldehyde's preservative action.
Question 4: In embalming chemistry, what is the function of a surfactant (wetting agent)?
- To reduce surface tension and improve fluid distribution (Correct answer)
- To neutralize acids in the vascular system
- To provide temporary preservation during shipping
- To act as a bleaching agent for discolored tissue
Correct answer: To reduce surface tension and improve fluid distribution
Surfactants reduce surface tension, allowing the embalming solution to penetrate tissues more evenly and thoroughly through the capillary beds.
Question 5: Which vessel is most commonly used as the primary injection site during arterial embalming?
- Common carotid artery (Correct answer)
- Femoral artery
- Axillary artery
- Radial artery
Correct answer: Common carotid artery
The common carotid artery is the most frequently used primary injection site because of its accessibility and proximity to the head, allowing effective preservation of facial features.
Question 6: What is the chemical reaction called when formaldehyde binds to amino groups in tissue proteins?
- Cross-linking (methylenation) (Correct answer)
- Saponification
- Hydrolysis
- Oxidation
Correct answer: Cross-linking (methylenation)
Formaldehyde preserves tissue through cross-linking, also called methylenation, where it forms methylene bridges between amino groups on adjacent protein chains.
BMS BMS Bachelor of Mortuary Science Embalming and Mortuary Chemistry Questions and Answers 2
Which chemical compound is the primary preservative agent used in arterial embalming fluids?