Chapter U2.41, Problem 1TAI

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The method of detection of different types of smells by nose needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Smell is a complex process taking place between the nasal receptor and odoring molecule.

Many receptors in the nose can bind with molecules having a characteristic smell.

Answer to Problem 1TAI

A nose can detect smells when molecules are bound with nasal receptors and nerve impulse reaches the brain.

Explanation of Solution

Different molecules have different structures, arrangement of atoms and functional groups. So different molecules have different binding patterns with nasal receptors. All molecules can’t bind with the same receptor as the structural complementarity is not possible for all molecules. Thus, different smells are detected by the brain when molecules are bound to different receptors.

Conclusion

Different smells are identified by the nose with the help of the brain.