The science behind the smell of rain: Petrichor and Ozone

Name: The science behind the smell of rain: Petrichor and Ozone
Uploaded: 2026-03-26T10:17:04Z
Duration: 1 min 4 s
Description: Meteorologist Ari Salsalari explains the scientific reasons behind the distinctive smells associated with rain. He introduces 'Petrichor,' the term for the earthy scent produced when rain disturbs natural oils in plants and geosmin from soil bacteria. He also describes the sharp, clean smell of ozone created by lightning strikes during a thunderstorm.

Fox Weather First · FWX · Mar 26, 2026 · 1m 4sSign Up Now

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Meteorologist Ari Salsalari explains the scientific reasons behind the distinctive smells associated with rain. He introduces 'Petrichor,' the term for the earthy scent produced when rain disturbs natural oils in plants and geosmin from soil bacteria. He also describes the sharp, clean smell of ozone created by lightning strikes during a thunderstorm.