Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Petrichor
Aug 14, 2019
Discover the enchanting scent of petrichor that wafts through the air after rain, rooted in fascinating science! Explore the intriguing molecule geosmin, produced by bacteria, which contributes to this earthy fragrance. Learn how the smell varies between urban and rural settings and its cultural significance, especially in places like India. With a sprinkling of nostalgia and humor, this exploration highlights the beauty of nature and the unique sensory experiences we encounter with the scent of rain.
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Petrichor: The Smell of Rain
- Petrichor, derived from Greek words meaning "stone" and "fluid of the gods," describes the pleasant, earthy smell after rain.
- Coined in 1964 by Isabel Joy Bear and Richard Thomas, it's a combination of three elements.
Geosmin: Source of Earthiness
- Geosmin, produced by Streptomyces bacteria, contributes to petrichor's earthy scent.
- Humans are remarkably sensitive to geosmin, even more than sharks are to blood.
Aerosolization of Geosmin
- Raindrops trap air bubbles upon hitting the ground, which then rise and burst, aerosolizing geosmin.
- This explains why light rain produces a stronger petrichor scent than heavy rain.