The olfactory system is the sensory system responsible for the sense of smell. It consists of specialized cells in the nasal cavity that detect odor molecules. These cells send signals to the brain, particularly to the olfactory bulb, where the information is processed and interpreted, allowing us to recognize different scents.
This system plays a crucial role in various aspects of life, including taste and memory. The olfactory receptors can identify a wide range of smells, contributing to our ability to enjoy food and recognize familiar environments. Additionally, certain scents can evoke strong emotional responses and memories.