Carlifornia Crematory Manager Practice Exam

What does the term "Interment" refer to in the context of human remains?

1. The act of cremating human remains

2. The placement or burial of human remains in a cemetery

3. The scattering of ashes in the ocean

4. The preservation of human remains in a mausoleum

The correct answer is: The placement or burial of human remains in a cemetery

The term "interment" specifically refers to the placement or burial of human remains within a designated area such as a cemetery. It encompasses the act of burying the deceased in the ground, which is a traditional practice in many cultures. Interment typically involves a formal ceremony and often includes a grave, tombstone, or some other kind of marker that signifies the burial site. In contrast, cremation is distinct from interment, as it involves the reduction of human remains to ashes through the process of combustion. Scattering of ashes, particularly in places like the ocean, falls into a different category, reflecting different practices for handling cremated remains. Similarly, the preservation of human remains in a mausoleum is a separate method of handling deceased individuals, often associated with entombment rather than interment in the soil. Thus, the precise definition of interment focuses on the burial aspect, making the choice about the placement of human remains in a cemetery the accurate understanding of the term.