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In this video MVAC Senior Research Associate Dr. Connie Arzigian explains what can be learned from burned bone. Bones are formed as a protein matrix (collagen) that supports the mineral structure (calcium and phosphate). As bones are exposed to heat, the collagen begins to break down, and over 650 degrees C, (1200 degrees F), the collagen and other organic material burns off, and only the mineral matrix remains. These are called calcined bones, and they will preserve better under environmental conditions such as acidic soils where unburned bones will have decayed.