Chapter U2.28, Problem 1TAI

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The relation between chemistry and smell needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Smell is a complex process in which binding of some molecules takes place inside our nose. Smell of a molecule depends on the type of functional groups present in it.

Explanation of Solution

Molecules have different shapes which are complimentary with the nasal receptor. Those molecules which are structurally fitting with the receptor will give the sensation of smell.

Different chemicals are there which have characteristic smell. For example,ethyl acetate has fruity smell because of the esters have sweet smell. As molecules have different functional groups so those have different bonding interaction with nasal receptors which attibutes for the diversity in smell of different compounds.

Conclusion

Smelling is a complex biochemical reaction taking place between receptor and molecules. This diversity comes from the functional groups present in a chemical.