infrared theory of smell

a theory that the olfactory sense organ functions as an infrared spectrometer. It assumes that odorants each have a unique infrared absorption spectrum, which produces transient cooling of the cilia in the olfactory epithelium. The theory is called into question by the fact that isomers of some odorants have identical infrared absorption spectrums but produce different odors.

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Psychology term of the day

January 28th 2025

myoclonic seizure

a rare type of generalized seizure characterized by rapid, involuntary muscle jerks.