What is a characteristic feature of modern cremation methods?

Modern cremation methods are distinguished by their reliance on high temperatures. This characteristic is fundamental to the process, as the primary goal of cremation is to reduce the body to its basic elements. High temperatures, typically exceeding 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, ensure complete combustion of organic material, which results in the ashes that are returned to the family.

The use of high temperatures not only facilitates efficient cremation but also aligns with health and environmental regulations, helping to minimize the release of harmful emissions. This process contrasts with outdated methods that may have relied on lower temperatures or different technologies.

While other options may involve aspects of the broader cremation process or contribute to efficiency, they do not capture the primary characteristic that defines modern cremation methods as effectively as the use of high temperatures does. For instance, open flames alone do not constitute a modern method, and while natural gases may be a fuel source, they are not defining features across all crematories.