ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Alkaline hydrolysis (death custom)

Alkaline hydrolysis is a really fancy and scientific way of turning a dead person's body into liquid so it can safely go back into the earth.

When a person passes away, their body is often put into a casket and buried in the ground. This is one way to treat the body after death. Another way is through cremation, which is when the body is burned and the ashes are kept or scattered. Alkaline hydrolysis is another way to treat the body after death, and it's becoming more popular as people look for ways to be more environmentally friendly.

So how does it work? Well, first the body is placed in a special container filled with water and a special kind of soap called "alkaline." The container is then heated up so the water and soap can dissolve the body over time. This process takes a few hours to a day or two, depending on the size of the body.

Once the body is dissolved, all that's left is a liquid solution that contains things like amino acids, sugars, and minerals that are safe for the environment. The liquid can then be safely disposed of in a way that won't harm the earth, like by using it to fertilize plants.

Although it may sound a little strange, alkaline hydrolysis is a respectful and sustainable way to treat a person's body after they've passed away.
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