We can feel rain coming due to a combination of factors, including changes in the air and the presence of specific smells. Here's a breakdown:
The Role of Petrichor
- What is Petrichor? Petrichor is the earthy scent that often accompanies rain, especially after a dry spell. It's caused by oils released from plants and soil that accumulate during dry periods.
- How we smell it? When rain begins to fall, it disturbs these oils, and they are released into the air as an aerosol, which we then can smell.
- Reference The video, "Can you smell when rain is coming? Science says yes", explains that petrichor is derived from plant oils.
The Presence of Ozone
- What is Ozone? Ozone is a gas that is formed when lightning splits oxygen molecules into individual atoms, which then combine with additional oxygen molecules to form ozone (O3).
- How we smell it? Ozone has a distinct, often described as a sharp, pungent, or chlorine-like smell.
- Reference The video indicates that lightning can cause ozone to form, which contributes to the smell associated with approaching rain.
Changes in Air Pressure and Humidity
- Drop in Pressure Before it rains, barometric pressure often drops. This can sometimes be felt by some people, causing headaches or general discomfort.
- Increased Humidity The air becomes more humid prior to rain, leading to that heavy, sticky feeling.
Summary of Why We "Feel" Rain
| Factor | Description | How it's "Felt" |
|---|---|---|
| Petrichor | Oils released from plants and soil into the air by raindrops | Earthy smell that is noticeable before rain begins. |
| Ozone | Created when lightning splits oxygen molecules | Sharp, pungent smell. |
| Air Pressure | Decreases before rainfall. | Headaches or feeling of discomfort (for some people). |
| Humidity | Increases as moisture gathers in the atmosphere. | A heavy, sticky feeling in the air. |
In short, the combination of petrichor and ozone, as explained in the reference, with changes in air pressure and humidity, are the primary reasons why we often sense when rain is on its way.
