Yes, the earthy scent is partly microbe excretion
That nostalgic smell after a downpour? It’s not just the rain. It’s caused by a compound called geosmin, released when water hits soil teeming with bacteria like Streptomyces.
Geosmin = bacterial metabolic waste.
Humans can detect it in concentrations as low as 5 parts per trillion which is more sensitive than sharks are to blood!
Scientists think we evolved this sensitivity to find fresh water sources.
What’s your favorite weird smell that most people don’t understand?
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That rain smell is amazing and strange how something like bacteria waste can feel so comforting. I also like the smell of old books and even petrol sometimes.
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It’s amazing how our noses are wired to pick up on something like geosmin so strongly. And I agree there’s something oddly comforting about the smell of old books.
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That earthy scent after rain, is amazing. This unique smell is very calming and refreshing.
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Exactly! I love the smell of old books too.
Oh i thought i love the smell so I’m just doing that but now I’m intersted to know reason behind it