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How to master your sense of smell - Alexandra Horowitz

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TEDEd Animation

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Some perfumers can distinguish individual odors in a fragrance made of hundreds of scents; tea-experts have been known to sniff out the exact location of a particular tea; and the NYC Transit Authority once had a employee responsible only for sniffing out gas leaks. But can anyone learn to smell with the sensitivity of those experts? Alexandra Horowitz shares three simple steps to a better nose.

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You come into a friend’s home and detect the most wonderful smell you have ever encountered. You want to remember that smell forever so you “dwell on the smell.” Describe what happens in your brain as a result.

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Alexandra Horowitz
  • Director Jonathan Trueblood
  • Script Editor Mia Nacamulli
  • Illustrator Jonathan Trueblood
  • Animator David Morrison
  • Sound Designer Weston Fonger
  • Associate Producer Jessica Ruby
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Narrator Julianna Zarzycki

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