Which term refers specifically to the art and science of preparing the deceased for burial?

The term that specifically refers to the art and science of preparing the deceased for burial is embalming. This process involves the preservation and sanitization of the body, which typically includes the use of chemicals to inhibit decay, restore a more lifelike appearance, and allow for a viewing before the burial.

Embalming is a specialized practice within mortuary science, focusing on the techniques and methods to ensure that the body is presentable for funeral services and suitable for burial. The skill set of an embalmer includes understanding anatomy, the chemical solutions used, and various procedures required to prepare a body respectfully and hygienically.

Other terms mentioned, like cremation and interment, refer to different aspects of handling the deceased. Cremation involves the process of reducing the body to ashes through combustion, while interment is the act of placing the deceased in a grave or tomb. Mortuary science encompasses a broader field that includes embalming, but it is not limited to just that practice; it covers various facets of death care, including grief counseling, legal considerations, and funeral service management.