Fire damage is typical in forensics cases and can be characterized by three manifestations left on bone. It is possible for fire to reduce bones to ash, a process known as cremation.
The first characterization of fire is a change in coloration, which follows a distinct pattern. First the bone changes from its normal color to a dark brown and subsequently black, which is caused by the carbonization of organic matter. Then the bone undergoes a change from dark gray, to light gray, and finally to white. At this final stage the only material left from the bone is the calcium deposits, which results in the white coloration.
The second change seen in bone when exposed to fire is warping, cracking, and overall distortion.
The last change seen is shrinkage of bone due to the rapid evaporation of moisture.
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