olfactory science

Olfactory science studies how our sense of smell works. When we encounter odors, tiny molecules enter our nose and reach the olfactory receptors in the nasal cavity. These receptors send signals to the brain’s olfactory bulb, which processes and interprets different smells. This complex system allows us to perceive a vast array of odors, influencing taste, memory, and emotion. Factors like the strength of molecules, receptor sensitivity, and brain interpretation all play roles in how we experience aromas. Understanding this process helps in areas like flavor development, diagnosing smell disorders, and creating scent-based technologies.