What effect does chilling have on decomposition?

Chilling has a significant effect on the decomposition process, acting primarily to slow it down. This is largely due to the metabolic activities of bacteria and other microorganisms that are involved in breaking down organic matter. When temperatures decrease, these microorganisms become less active, which in turn reduces the rate at which decomposition occurs.

While some cellular functions may persist at lower temperatures, the overall enzymatic activity and microbial proliferation that contribute to decomposition are inhibited. Consequently, chilling can extend the preservation of the body and delay the onset of the various stages of decomposition, such as autolysis and putrefaction, which would otherwise progress more rapidly at warmer temperatures.

In contrast, while extreme conditions might lead to entirely halted decomposition in certain scenarios, normal chilling does not stop the process completely; rather, it simply slows it down compared to ambient temperatures.