Which option refers to the practice of placing cremated remains in the ground?

The practice of placing cremated remains in the ground is known as burial. This involves interring the ashes in a designated location, typically within a cemetery or on private property, following any legal regulations that may apply. Burial of cremated remains allows families to memorialize their loved ones in a tangible way, providing a specific location for remembrance and reflection.

In this context, burial is a traditional and widely accepted method for handling cremated remains. It provides a physical space where families and friends can visit, pay their respects, and commemorate the deceased. This ritual is significant for many as it offers a sense of closure and connection to the individual's life.

The other options represent different processes related to the handling of cremated remains. Raking does not pertain to burial but rather could imply a method of managing the landscape or grounds of a cemetery. Water scattering involves dispersing ashes in a body of water, which is a form of memorialization that differs significantly from burial. Trenching generally refers to excavating a long, narrow ditch, which is not directly associated with cremation practices or the burial of remains. Thus, burial is the term that accurately describes the placement of cremated remains in the ground, highlighting its significance and tradition in memorial practices.