When arms, legs, or hands are present but not the whole body, how are these classified?

The classification of arms, legs, or hands when the whole body is not present is termed "body parts." This term is used to denote distinct segments of a human body that have been separated from the rest of it. In the context of mortuary science, it is important to specify terminology to ensure proper handling, processing, and identification of human remains.

The choice of "body parts" effectively conveys that these are specific pieces of a human body, distinguishing them from terms that imply a more complete set of remains or the entirety of a deceased individual. This classification directly impacts legal, forensic, and ethical considerations when dealing with human remains.

In contrast, the other terms do not accurately capture the nature of the partial remains. "Corpses" typically refer to complete bodies, and "remains" often implies a state that can include either whole bodies or fragments, but typically not just body parts. "Fragments" suggests that the pieces are small and damaged, which may not apply to intact limbs or appendages that are quite recognizable as distinct parts of human anatomy. Thus, "body parts" is the most precise and appropriate classification in this context.