crémation

Crémation (also cremation) is the process of reducing a human body to bone fragments by exposing it to high heat in a crematorium, producing cremains. The practice is an alternative to burial and is governed by national and local regulations. The modern method emerged in the 19th century and spread worldwide, influenced by cultural, religious, and practical considerations.

The procedure typically begins with the body being prepared and placed in a cremation chamber. Temperatures range roughly from 760 to 1,000 degrees Celsius (about 1,400 to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit). The cremation lasts one to three hours, depending on body size and equipment. After combustion, the remaining bone fragments are cooled, sorted, and processed into a fine powder, commonly called cremains. The cremains are returned to the family in an urn or container, with options including keeping, interment, or scattering in designated areas.

Legally, cremation is permitted or restricted differently across jurisdictions and is often subject to consent by next of kin. Religions vary in their stance; many Christian denominations, Buddhism, and Hinduism allow cremation, while some groups have restrictions or preferences regarding the treatment of ashes.

Environmental and practical considerations include emissions controls and the handling of dental fillings containing mercury, which modern facilities mitigate with filtration. Alternatives to flame-based cremation include alkaline hydrolysis (aquamation), legal in some places.

See also: Funeral, urn, ash scattering, burial.