Minnesota State Mortician Practice Exam

What is a common feature of both vaults and crypts?

1. Both are used for human remains

2. Both are temporary holding areas

3. Both are above ground

4. Both are made from concrete

The correct answer is: Both are used for human remains

A common feature of both vaults and crypts is that they are used for human remains. Vaults are typically designed to hold caskets, providing a protective enclosure against the elements and helping to prevent the ground from settling over the grave. Crypts, on the other hand, are more permanent structures designed to hold multiple caskets or urns, often located within mausoleums or other buildings. Both structures serve the important function of honoring and protecting the deceased, allowing families to memorialize their loved ones within a dignified and respectful environment. This shared purpose is central to their design and use in burial practices. The other options don’t accurately reflect a defining feature of both vaults and crypts. While some vaults may be made of concrete, not all must be, and crypts can also be constructed from various materials. Similarly, while crypts are often above ground, vaults are usually placed underground. Additionally, vaults are not considered temporary holding areas; they represent a more permanent resting place like crypts.