Science Behind the Smell of Wet Leaves After Rain
• Petrichor, the earthy scent after rain, is caused by oils from plants and compounds like geosmin released from soil bacteria.
• The smell of wet leaves is due to the release of organic compounds as leaves decompose, intensified by rainwater.
• The intensity of petrichor depends on rain intensity, preceding dry period length, and the type of soil and vegetation.
Earthy smell after rain: a scientific explanation
Have you ever noticed that distinct, earthy smell that fills the air after a rainfall, especially when it follows a dry spell? This unique aroma, often associated with wet leaves, has a scientific explanation rooted in chemistry and biology. The phenomenon, known as "petrichor," is a complex blend of compounds released from the soil, plants, and even ozone created by lightning.
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