What process involves burning human remains to ashes?

Cremation is the process that involves the burning of human remains, resulting in ashes. This method of disposition is widely used and is an alternative to burial. The process takes place in a crematorium, where the body is subjected to high temperatures that reduce it to bone fragments, which are then processed into ashes.

In contrast, burial refers to placing a body in the ground or a grave, disinfection involves the cleaning or sterilization of remains to prevent infection, and embalming is a preservation process that uses chemicals to slow the decomposition of the body, allowing for viewing and memorial services. Understanding the specific definitions and processes associated with each term is crucial for those studying the funeral service profession, as each plays a distinct role in handling human remains.