How is scent perceived?

How is scent perceived?

• A. Only via eyes
• B. Orthonasal and retronasal route
• C. Only via mouth
• D. Through skin

Answer: (B)

Scent is detected by the olfactory system through two routes: orthonasal and retronasal. Odorants in the air are inhaled through the nose and reach the olfactory epithelium, where receptors respond and send signals to the brain—this is orthonasal perception. At the same time, aromas from food travel from the mouth into the nasal cavity during chewing and swallowing, stimulating the same olfactory receptors via the pharynx—this is retronasal perception. Together, these routes explain how we perceive scent and how it blends with flavor. It isn’t detected by the eyes, nor is it limited to the mouth alone or the skin.

Scent is detected by the olfactory system through two routes: orthonasal and retronasal. Odorants in the air are inhaled through the nose and reach the olfactory epithelium, where receptors respond and send signals to the brain—this is orthonasal perception. At the same time, aromas from food travel from the mouth into the nasal cavity during chewing and swallowing, stimulating the same olfactory receptors via the pharynx—this is retronasal perception. Together, these routes explain how we perceive scent and how it blends with flavor. It isn’t detected by the eyes, nor is it limited to the mouth alone or the skin.