Cremation
Reducing the body to bone fragments and ash using high heat (about 1,400–1,800 °F) over two to three hours. The resulting 'cremated remains' weigh 4–8 pounds for an adult.
After cremation, the bone fragments are processed in a machine called a cremulator into a uniform, sand-like consistency. The remains are returned to the family in a temporary plastic container or, if the family bought one, an urn.
Cremation accounts for about 60% of US dispositions and is rising. It is legal in every US state. Costs range from $800 for direct cremation to $4,000+ when bundled with viewing and a formal service.
Religious rules vary. Catholic Church permits cremation but prefers the body be present at the funeral mass; Jewish and Muslim traditions generally prohibit cremation; most Protestant, Buddhist, and Hindu traditions permit or prefer it. Check the specific tradition before assuming.
- Direct cremation— Cremation with no viewing, no embalming, and no formal service at the funeral home. The body goes from the place of death to the crematory. The family gets the ashes back later.
- Urn— The container that holds cremated remains. Required only if the family wants something more permanent than the temporary plastic container the crematory provides.
- Aquamation— An alternative to flame cremation that uses heated water and lye to break the body down to bone fragments. Same result as cremation, less energy, no emissions.
This definition is general consumer information, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Industry practices and regulations change occasionally; verify before relying on anything here for a specific decision.
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