Concept explainers
To determine:
The meaning of the term olfaction
Introduction:
Olfaction or the sense to smell is the ability to differentiate between different types of smells. It is one of the primitive senses in organisms that helps them in detecting the pheromones to catch a prey or mate.
Explanation of Solution
Explanation:
The ability of smell is achieved by olfactory organs that are a part of the nasal cavity. The nasal cavity is lined with the olfactory sensory neurons that aids in detecting the fragrance from the airborne particles. As the air enters the nasal cavity, the particles also enter the cavity along with the air. The swirling action of air brings the water and fat soluble odorants in contact with the sensors.
The signals are transmitted to the olfactory cortex where the signals are decoded by it. The olfactory organs have two main layers namely the olfactory epithelium and lamina propria.
The olfactory epithelium has sensory neurons and the lamina propria is innervated by blood vessels and nerves. It also contains olfactory glands that produce mucous
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Chapter 17 Solutions
Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
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