Why did Egyptians practice mummification and what is the process of embalming?

Egyptians practiced mummification to preserve the body for the afterlife, as they believed that the soul would need a recognizable physical form to continue its existence. The embalming process involved removing internal organs, which were then treated and stored in canopic jars, and dehydrating the body with natron, a natural salt, to prevent decay. The body was then wrapped in linen, often with amulets placed between layers for protection, and finally placed in a sarcophagus or tomb. This elaborate ritual reflected their beliefs in immortality and the importance of the afterlife.