In today's world, Algor mortis is a highly relevant topic that has captured the attention of individuals of all types. From its impact on everyday life to its impact on society in general, Algor mortis has generated constant debate and driven the search for innovative solutions. With a multidisciplinary approach, this article seeks to explore the different aspects related to Algor mortis, offering a comprehensive and updated vision on this topic. Through the analysis of various case studies, the aim is to provide the reader with a global and critical vision that allows a better understanding of the importance of Algor mortis in today's world and its possible implications for the future.
Algor mortis (from Latin algor 'coldness', and mortis 'of death'), the third stage of death, is the change in body temperature post mortem, until the ambient temperature is matched. This is generally a steady decline, although if the ambient temperature is above the body temperature (such as in a hot desert), the change in temperature will be positive, as the (relatively) cooler body acclimates to the warmer environment. External factors can have a significant influence.
The term was first used by Bennet Dowler in 1849. The first published measurements of the intervals of temperature after death were done by John Davy in 1839.
Applicability
A measured rectal temperature can give some indication of the time of death. Although the heat conduction which leads to body cooling follows an exponential decay curve, it can be approximated as a linear process: 2 °C during the first hour and 1 °C per hour until the body nears ambient temperature.
Generally, temperature change is considered an inaccurate means of determining time of death, as the rate of change is affected by several key factors, including:
Stability or fluctuation of the ambient temperature.
The thickness (i.e. thermal insulation value) and body coverage of clothing or similar materials.