How does formaldehyde work in dead bodies?

Question

( in biologycal or chemistry statements )

Answer 1

There are two types of chemicals used during embalming, and both have high concentrations of formaldehyde.  The formaldehyde kills bacteria, prevents new bacteria from growing, and for all practical purposes, pickles the meat.  

One chemical is used for your body cavity.  It washes out and fills up your gut.

The second chemical is vascular, and is used to replace all of your blood.  

Answer 2

40% formaldehyde or formalin is used as fixatives in histopathology laboratories. They keep cells and tissue in a life like manner. In museums formaldehyde is used for preservation. The mode of action of formaldehyde is by precipitation of proteins and filling out the vacant spaces.