FREE BMS Bachelor of Mortuary Science Embalming and Mortuary Chemistry Questions and Answers

Question 1

An embalmer is preparing a solution for a case exhibiting significant dehydration and emaciation.
Which type of modifying agent should be prioritized in the arterial fluid mixture to help restore a more natural, hydrated appearance?

Accepted Answer

Humectants

Answer

Buffers

Answer

Anti-edemic agents

Answer

Surfactants

Question 2

What is the primary mechanism by which formaldehyde preserves tissues during embalming?

Accepted Answer

Fixing proteins by cross-linking amino groups

Answer

Hydrating the cells through osmosis

Answer

Lowering the tissue pH to an acidic state

Answer

Dissolving cellular lipids and fats

Question 3

An arterial fluid is labeled with an 'index' of 25. What does this number represent?

Accepted Answer

The percentage of formaldehyde gas by volume in 100mL of solution.

Answer

The total percentage of active ingredients in the bottle.

Answer

The number of ounces of formaldehyde gas per gallon of fluid.

Answer

The recommended dilution ratio for an average case.

Question 4

During arterial injection, the embalmer notices the pH of the tissues is highly acidic due to delayed embalming. Which accessory chemical is most appropriate to add to the solution to ensure optimal preservation by formaldehyde?

Accepted Answer

A buffer

Answer

A surfactant

Answer

A humectant

Answer

A dye

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a primary function of a surfactant in an embalming solution?

Accepted Answer

Adding a significant amount of preservative power

Answer

Reducing the surface tension of the fluid

Answer

Promoting better diffusion into tissues

Answer

Helping to clear blood from capillaries

Question 6

An embalmer is treating a body that has been deceased for several days and is showing early signs of decomposition, including a strong odor. To neutralize the ammonia and other nitrogenous waste products that interfere with formaldehyde, the embalmer should ensure the fluid contains:

Accepted Answer

A high index of formaldehyde

Answer

Glutaraldehyde

Answer

Phenol

Answer

A masking fragrance

An embalmer is preparing a solution for a case exhibiting significant dehydration and emaciation.Which type of modifying agent should be prioritized in the arterial fluid mixture to help restore a more natural, hydrated appearance?

An embalmer is preparing a solution for a case exhibiting significant dehydration and emaciation.
Which type of modifying agent should be prioritized in the arterial fluid mixture to help restore a more natural, hydrated appearance?