Which factor is crucial in controlling the flow of embalming fluid?

The pressure applied during injection is crucial because it directly influences how effectively the embalming fluid is distributed throughout the vascular system of the deceased. Proper pressure ensures that the fluid can overcome the resistance within the vessels and reach the tissues that need preservation. If the pressure is too low, the fluid may not adequately circulate, leading to incomplete embalming. Conversely, excessive pressure can result in too rapid injection, which might cause swelling or rupture of the vessels.

Other factors, while important, do not have the same direct impact on the flow rate of the embalming fluid. For instance, the temperature of the embalming room can affect the viscosity of the embalming solution, but it does not control the flow independently. The viscosity of the solution is a characteristic that can influence how the fluid moves through the vessels but is not the primary controlling factor for its flow during the embalming process. The time of day does not inherently alter how embalming fluid flows; it is more about the procedural settings and techniques being employed. Thus, the pressure applied during injection is the key factor in managing the flow of embalming fluid effectively.