TED: The science of scent | Luca Turin

The video explores the science of fragrance, focusing on the Beyond Paradise perfume. It delves into the chemistry of fragrances, discussing molecular composition and the role of atoms. The video contrasts the molecular shape theory with the vibrational theory of smell, highlighting the latter's potential in identifying unique smells. It also covers the commercial application of vibrational theory in the fragrance industry, showcasing the creation of new molecules and the innovation it brings.

What is the name of the fragrance discussed in the introduction?

• Upper East Side

• Melaleuca Bark

• Eden Project

• Beyond Paradise

What is the main component responsible for the green note smell in the fragrance?

• Coumarin

• Ethanol

• Melaleuca bark

• SIS three hexenal

Which theory suggests that smell is determined by molecular vibrations?

• Shape theory

• Enzyme theory

• Vibrational theory

• Color theory

What type of molecule was found to have the same vibration as sulfur compounds?

• Borane

• Ethanol

• Coumarin

• Hexenal

What technology is proposed to exist in our noses to detect molecular vibrations?

• Nanoscale spectroscope

• Gas chromatograph

• Electron microscope

• Laser spectrometer

What was the main challenge in proving the vibrational theory of smell?

• Difficulty in synthesizing borane

• Inability to create a spectroscope

• Lack of molecular evidence

• High cost of research

What was the main goal of the company created around the vibrational theory?

• To synthesize new fragrance molecules

• To sell existing perfumes

• To develop new gas chromatographs

• To create a new type of spectrometer

What was the challenge given by perfumers in France regarding coumarin?

• To reduce its cost

• To increase its yield

• To make it smell like vanilla

• To create a non-carcinogenic version

What was the outcome of the computational method used to create a new coumarin?

• It smelled exactly like coumarin

• It failed to replicate the smell

• It was rejected by perfumers

• It was too expensive to produce

What is the main advantage of using computational methods in fragrance creation?

• It increases the cost of production

• It reduces the need for chemists

• It limits the variety of fragrances

• It requires more time for development