What’s The Science Behind ‘Scent After Rain’?

News Desk

Islamabad: Have you ever wondered where the earthly scent comes from after it rains? Actually, there is science behind it.

According to a report by the British broadcasting organisation BBC, bacteria, plants and even lightning play an important role in the scent coming from the earth after heavy rain. This fragrance has been given the name ‘Patricor’. This fragrance is so pleasant that some scientists have tried to create similar fragrances (perfumers).John Innes Centre Head of Molecular Microbiology Prof Mark Buttner explains that “soil has a high concentration of bacteria, so when you smell the smell after a rain, you’re actually smelling a molecule that’s produced by certain types of bacteria.” This molecule is called geosmin and is produced by Streptomyces which is also used as an antibiotic, Dr Mark Buttner added.

When raindrops fall to the ground, geosmin is dispersed into the air and when you sniff, these molecules reach your nose, giving you a sense of smell. Now this geosmin is common for perfume fragrances today. The research also suggests that geosmin may be related to a similar substance called ‘terpenes’ which are the source of fragrance in many plants. Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Research Leader Professor Philip Stevenson says that rain releases this substance and spreads the scent. Many plant chemicals that have a pleasant aroma are produced on the leaves and rain can cause damage by leaching these compounds. Thunderstorms also play an important role in the sense of happiness; lightning clears the air which creates a strong fragrance in the air. University of Mississippi Professor Marybeth Stolzenberg explains that lightning and thunderstorms clean the air and improve air quality, removing dust and smoke and other pollutants that cause odours in the air.