Post-mortem changes refer to the various processes that occur in a human body after

death. When used in conjunction with the history, terminal events, and scene findings in death
investigation, the forensic pathologist can have a point of reference regarding the post-mortem
interval.

Algor mortis refers to the postmortem cooling of the body. This is a result of the loss of body heat to the
surrounding environment, and can be influenced by a number of factors such as ambient temperature,
body size and mass, and clothing and insulation. In general, the body temperature will drop by
approximately 1-1.5 degrees Fahrenheit (0.5-1 degree Celsius) per hour in the first few hours after
death.

Livor mortis, also known as postmortem lividity, refers to the pooling of blood in dependent areas of the
body after death. This occurs as a result of the loss of circulatory function, and can be used to determine
the position of the body after death. Livor mortis typically becomes fixed in the skin within 8-12 hours
after death.

Rigor mortis refers to the stiffening of the muscles after death. This occurs as a result of the depletion of
ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is needed to allow muscles to relax. Rigor mortis typically begins
within 2-6 hours after death, and becomes fully developed within 12-24 hours after death. It then begins
to subside, typically disappearing after 36-48 hours.