Which of the following is NOT a component of hardening compounds?

The correct choice indicates that phenol is not a component of hardening compounds used in funeral service. Hardening compounds are typically designed to absorb moisture and expedite the drying process of remains by utilizing certain chemical agents that effectively bind with water.

Alum is commonly used in hardening compounds due to its properties that help in the preservation process. It acts as a dehydrating medium, making it effective in reducing the moisture content in tissues. Calcium carbonate is another ingredient frequently found in hardening compounds since it aids in the stabilization and preservation of biological materials by acting as a buffering agent. Additionally, magnesium sulfate is often included because of its hygroscopic nature, which allows it to absorb moisture effectively.

Phenol, while used as a disinfectant and preservative in some funeral service applications, is not a standard component of hardening compounds. Instead, it is more associated with other methods of preservation, such as embalming fluids, rather than with the specific formulation aimed at hardening tissues post-mortem. This distinction is crucial for understanding the various functions and components involved in funeral service practices.