Olfactory receptors in the human nose are capable of distinguishing and remembering up to fifty thousand different specific scents, directly linking those smells to the memory centers of the brain.

A closer look

Olfactory receptors in the human nose are capable of distinguishing and remembering up to fifty thousand different specific scents, directly linking those smells to the memory centers of the brain. This is why catching a random whiff of a specific brand of sunscreen or a bizarre cleaning product can instantly violently transport your consciousness back to a highly specific childhood vacation from two decades ago. Despite possessing this incredibly powerful, highly sensitive chemical analysis machine right in the middle of your face, you still manage to routinely leave the trash taking process until the entire kitchen smells like a radioactive waste dump