What information can be gathered from external physical examinations during autopsies?

The information gathered from external physical examinations during autopsies primarily includes signs of trauma and other physical indicators. This examination is crucial in forensic pathology as it helps to identify any visible injuries, such as bruises, cuts, or fractures, which can provide significant clues regarding the circumstances surrounding the death. Additionally, it can reveal other physical characteristics, such as marks that might indicate prior medical conditions or any external factors that could have contributed to the cause of death, such as the presence of foreign substances or signs of neglect.

In contrast, details about the victim's family would not be discernible through an external examination, as it would require additional investigative measures, such as interviewing family members. The victim's last meal is typically determined through internal examinations, specifically by analyzing the stomach contents, rather than through external observation. Similarly, the victim's psychological history is not something that can be assessed via a physical examination; rather, that information would come from medical records or interviews with acquaintances or family members. Thus, option B stands out as the most relevant answer regarding the type of information that can be directly observed during an external examination in an autopsy.