The Body Farm

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The Body Farm The Body Farm is an anthropology research center located in Knoxville Tennessee at the University of Tennessee. The Body Farm was started in 1971 by Dr. William M. Bass, a Forensic Anthropologist known for his research on human Osteology (The study of bones.) and decomposition. The anthropology center is located in Neyland Stadium and the remains end up under the stadium. As of May 2009, there were 5,000 to 6,000 skeletal remains stored under Neyland Stadium. At the Body Farm, donated bodies are studied in real life scenarios of decomposition that investigators might face. These scenarios include bodies buried in shallow graves, stuffed in garbage bags, suitcases, car trunks, or completely exposed to the elements. The decomposition process is charted and used to determine the time of death. It also shows how nature can affect the decomposition process. The process of decomposition starts four minutes after death and is caused when the cells in the body are deprived of nourishment. Without food molecules, the digestive enzymes begin to break down the cells in a process known as autolysis. Within a few hours, the chemicals that allow muscle fibers to slide freely begin to metabolize, causing temporary stiffness known as rigor mortis. The body soon loses color as the blood pools in the lowermost portions of the body. The bacteria in the stomach then begin to break down the body itself while insects, maggots, and scavengers break down the skin. Over several days the brain begins to liquefy and drain out through the mouth, nose, and ears. Blisters soon form on the skin, which eventually peels off in large sheets. Researchers at the Body Farm have discovered that when the skin is soaked in warm water, it can restore its flexibility and can be used for fingerprint identification. The Body Farm has also helped in solving murder
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