NBE Funeral Directing Practice Exam

What are the main components of cremated remains?

1. Organic tissue and organic matter

2. Inorganic bone fragments

3. Contents of the casket

4. Ashes mixed with soil

The correct answer is: Inorganic bone fragments

Cremated remains primarily consist of inorganic bone fragments. During the cremation process, the organic components of the body, such as tissues and fluids, are consumed by the intense heat, leaving behind the inorganic materials primarily composed of minerals found in the bones. These fragments are often referred to as "ashes," but they are not ashes in the traditional sense; instead, they are much more accurately described as the bone material that has been pulverized. The other options do not accurately represent the composition of cremated remains. While organic tissue and organic matter are part of the body before cremation, they do not remain after the process. Contents of the casket are irrelevant when discussing cremated remains as those may or may not be cremated, depending on the materials. Lastly, mixing ashes with soil does not reflect the true nature of cremated remains, which are primarily the inorganic bone fragments resulting from the process.