MIT explains the science behind petrichor, the earthy scent released when rain falls on dry soil. To wit:
MIT researchers observed that when a raindrop hits a surface, it traps tiny air bubbles at the point of contact. As in a glass of champagne, the bubbles then shoot upward, ultimately bursting from the drop in a fizz of aerosols. The researchers suspect that in natural environments, aerosols may carry aromatic elements, along with bacteria and viruses stored in soil. These aerosols may be released during light or moderate rainfall, and then spread via gusts of wind.
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I always wondered about the great smell after rain in spring.
“The researchers suspect that in natural environments, aerosols may carry aromatic elements, along with bacteria and viruses stored in soil”
So rain is a medium for ebola. I’m surprised this isn’t in the Daily Mail.