Cremation is an increasingly popular option for handling the remains of a loved one because of its affordability and simplicity. Understanding what happens during the cremation process can provide comfort and clarity to those considering this choice. The process involves reducing human remains to ashes through the application of intense heat. This is typically carried out in a crematorium, a specially designed facility.
During the cremation process, the body is placed in a coffin or a rigid container, which is then transferred to the cremation chamber. The chamber operates at extremely high temperatures, usually ranging from 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. This intense heat breaks down the body into bone fragments, which are then processed to resemble ashes. These ashes, also known as cremains, are returned to the family in a chosen container or urn.
Families deciding between burial and cremation often ask about the environmental and personal impacts of each option. Cremation is typically considered less demanding of land resources than traditional burial. Additionally, the ashes can be kept in various ways that honor the deceased, such as in cremation jewelry or nesting in a favorite location, fulfilling personal or familial traditions. This personalization makes cremation a treasured choice for many families.