CCO CCO Cremation Chemistry & Biology

Question 1

At approximately what temperature does the human body undergo complete combustion during cremation?

Accepted Answer

1400–1800°F (760–982°C)

Answer

600–800°F (316–427°C)

Answer

2200–2500°F (1204–1371°C)

Answer

3000°F+ (1649°C+)

Question 2

What are the primary chemical compounds that make up cremated remains (bone ash)?

Accepted Answer

Calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate (hydroxyapatite)

Answer

Carbon and nitrogen compounds

Answer

Iron oxides and sulfates

Answer

Sodium chloride and potassium chloride

Question 3

Why do cremated remains appear white or gray rather than black?

Accepted Answer

Because black carbon residue has been fully oxidized, leaving only white bone minerals

Answer

Because ash from organic material is white

Answer

Due to the addition of chemicals during cremation

Answer

Because a cooling process bleaches the remains

Question 4

What chemical process primarily occurs in the primary combustion chamber during cremation?

Accepted Answer

Pyrolysis and combustion (oxidation)

Answer

Hydrolysis

Answer

Saponification

Answer

Fermentation

Question 5

Pacemakers contain lithium batteries that can explode during cremation because lithium reacts violently with:

Accepted Answer

Water vapor and oxygen at high temperatures

Answer

Nitrogen

Answer

Carbon dioxide

Answer

Calcium phosphate

Question 6

Approximately what percentage of a body's weight remains as cremated remains after complete cremation?

Accepted Answer

5–7%

Answer

1–2%

Answer

3–4%

Answer

10–15%