The Smell Of Christmas Is Tree Screams
Summary
This festive "Field Notes" episode uncovers the true nature of Christmas tree smell, explaining how the comforting pine scent is actually a tree's chemical warning system and an evolutionary strategy for survival through fire. Additionally, hosts Michael and Hannah guide listeners through intriguing tactile illusions, like the upside-down tongue and crossed fingers, demonstrating the brain's remarkable yet sometimes inaccurate sensory mapping and its incredible plasticity, even discussing phantom limbs and sensory re-mapping experiments.Episode description
Each December millions of homes fill with the unmistakable scent of pine. It's sharp, resinous, and strangely comforting, feeling timeless…familiar…safe.
But what if that smell isn’t what we think it is at all?
Professor Hannah Fry and Michael Stevens follow the trail of the molecules that shape this seasonal scent. It turns out it didn’t evolve to delight, but to warn and repel. The smell of Christmas is the smell of fear.
Welcome to The Rest Is Science: Field Notes.
Each Thursday, Hannah and Michael rummage through their personal troves of scientific treasure to source objects and ideas that hope to expand our understanding the universe, scramble our brains, or hint at forces that are invisible to the naked eye.
They’ll also be tackling your questions, so email The Rest Is Science at therestisscience@goalhanger.com.
-------------------
For more information about Cancer Research UK, their research, breakthroughs and how you can support them, visit https://cancerresearchuk.org/restisscience
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.
-------------------
Find The Rest Is Science all over the internet by clicking here.
-------------------
Video Producer: Adam Thornton
Video & Social: Bex Tyrrell
Assistant Producer: Imee Marriott
Producer: Becki Hills
Senior Producer: Lauren Armstrong-Carter
Head Of Digital: Samuel Oakley
Exec Producer: Neil Fearn
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices