Things That Happen After Death According to Science

#20 A Dead Body Releases Chemical Compounds

Besides releasing gas and faeces, the body releases several compounds after death. Though not all chemical compounds have a recognizable smell, most compounds have a recognisable odour.

Cadaverine and putrescine are some of the compounds released by a decaying body which smell like rotting flesh. Since the decomposition is an extremely toxic phenomenon, it is best to not come in close contact with a dead body.