What The stage of fusion of various bones within a skeleton can be used to estimate the of the decedent.?

The stage of fusion of various bones within a skeleton, particularly the long bones and the pelvis, can be used to estimate the biological age of the decedent. As individuals age, certain bones undergo a process of ossification and fusion, which occurs at known rates during different life stages. For instance, the fusion of the epiphyseal plates in long bones typically completes in late adolescence to early adulthood. By examining the degree of fusion in these bones, forensic anthropologists can make informed estimates about the age at death of the individual.