What is embalming?

Embalming is defined as the preservation of a deceased body with chemicals. This process involves the use of formaldehyde and other preservatives to slow down the natural decomposition of the body, allowing for a more extended period of viewing and facilitating the transportation of the remains if necessary. The primary goal of embalming is to preserve the physical appearance of the deceased for memorial services, ensuring that they are presentable for viewing by friends and family.

The other options describe different aspects of funeral services but do not capture the essence of embalming. Preparing a body for cremation involves a different set of procedures that focus on readiness for the cremation process, while dressing a body for viewing is a step that often occurs after embalming but does not encompass the preservation aspect. The arrangement of funeral services pertains to the organizational side of the funeral process rather than the technical and chemical procedures involved in embalming itself.