Which sense is capable of distinguishing odors at very low concentrations?

The olfactory sense is uniquely equipped to detect and distinguish odors at very low concentrations, making it crucial for numerous tasks, especially in odor control and remediation. The olfactory receptors in the nasal cavity can identify specific molecules in the air, allowing this sense to pick up scents even in minuscule amounts.

This sensitivity is particularly valuable in contexts such as cleaning, restoration, and environmental monitoring, where the ability to recognize odors can indicate underlying issues, such as mold, smoke, or other sources of unpleasant smells. In contrast, the visual, auditory, and tactile senses do not have the capacity to detect airborne chemicals in this manner, as they are designed for completely different types of sensory information. Hence, the olfactory sense stands out as the clear choice for distinguishing odors, particularly at low concentrations.