algor mortis

Algor mortis, the second stage of death, is the change in body temperature post mortem, until the ambient temperature is matched. This is generally a steady decline, although if the ambient temperature is above the body temperature, the change in temperature will be positive, as the cooler body acclimates to the warmer environment. External factors can have a significant influence. The term was first used by Bennet Dowler in 1849. The first published measurements of the intervals of temperature after death were done by John Davy in 1839.

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A dead body left on Mars would dry out and mummify so well it would make the ancient Egyptians jealous. The first few stages (algor mortis [body cools], livor mortis [blood pools], and rigor mortis [muscles stiffen]) would still take place. But there could be no other overt signs of decomposition.