Estimate postmortem interval from body temperature.
Body cools ~1.0–1.5°C/hr in the first 12 hours (slower for larger bodies, faster in cold environments). Normal body temp assumed at 37°C. This simplified model uses Newton's law. In practice, Henssge's nomogram, rigor mortis, livor mortis, and decomposition stages provide additional information. Accuracy: ±2–3 hours in early postmortem period.