What effect does formaldehyde have on proteins during embalming?

Formaldehyde plays a crucial role in the embalming process by interacting with proteins, leading to coagulation. This is a process where formaldehyde reacts with the amino acids in proteins, causing the proteins to lose their natural structure and form a gel-like substance. This alteration helps to preserve tissue and prevents decomposition, which is essential in the context of embalming.

When proteins coagulate, they undergo changes that render them less susceptible to microbial action, thereby prolonging the preservation of the remains. This property is a key reason why formaldehyde is widely used in embalming fluids. By creating a stable environment for the tissues, it limits inflammation and decay.

In contrast, hydrolysis pertains to the breakdown of compounds due to the interaction with water, which is not the main action formaldehyde performs on proteins during embalming. Denaturation generally refers to the alteration of a protein's natural state, but it doesn't convey the same level of permanence that coagulation signifies in embalming. Fermentation involves the breakdown of organic substances and is unrelated to the action of formaldehyde on proteins. Thus, coagulation accurately captures the primary effect that formaldehyde has on proteins during the embalming process.