Why are twelve holes drilled in the metal casket?

• A. For decoration
• B. To reduce weight
• C. To seal against water
• D. To allow better flow of sea water to sink the casket

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is buoyancy control for a sea burial. Drilling small holes in a metal casket allows seawater to flow into the interior. When water fills the coffin, it replaces the trapped air, increasing the overall density of the casket. Once its density exceeds that of seawater, the casket loses buoyancy and sinks. The holes aren’t for decoration or to make the casket lighter while staying afloat; they enable water to enter and promote sinking. They’re not about sealing against water; they’re about allowing water in to ensure the casket sinks more reliably and quickly in the sea.