What is the primary difference between a burial and a cremation?

The primary difference between burial and cremation lies in the methods used to handle the deceased's body after death. Burial involves placing the body in the ground, typically within a casket and at a designated burial site such as a cemetery. This process allows for the body to decompose naturally over time, returning to the earth.

In contrast, cremation is a process that involves the application of intense heat to the body, resulting in its reduction to ashes. This method does not involve interring the body as burial does, but rather transforms it into a form that can be stored, scattered, or interred in various ways.

Understanding this distinction clarifies that burial and cremation fundamentally differ in their treatments of the body and the final disposition of remains. This knowledge is essential for making informed decisions regarding funeral practices and understanding the preferences of the deceased or their loved ones.