Understanding Rigor Mortis for Time of Death Estimation

1. Name _______________________________ Date ____________ Line _______ Use the reference tables from the “Time of death – rigor mortis” notes. 1. A body was found with no evidence of any rigor. Why is it impossible to determine how long the body has been dead based on this evidence alone? ____________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 2. A body was discovered in the woods in the middle of a hot summer. The entire body was stiff. About how long has the body been dead? _____________________ Explain: _______________________________________________________________________ 3. A body was found with rigor in the face, chest, arms, and neck, but not legs. About how long has the body been dead? ________________ Explain: _____________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 4. A young woman died in her sleep. She was found with rigor in her face and jaw. About how long has she been dead? _________________ Explain: ___________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 5. A woman was jogging in a park while she was attacked and killed. When found, she exhibited rigor in her entire body. About how long has she been dead? ___________ Explain: _______________________________________________________________________ 6. A body was found with rigor in the chest, arms, and legs, but not face. About how long has the body been dead? __________ Explain: _______________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Rigor Mortis Questions