Tuesday, May 17, 2016

We (finally) know why old books smell so amazing

The closest thing we have to magic on this earth is the smell of books. The moment we open a novel and catch a whiff of its well-loved pages, we’re instantly transported to a universe filled with delicious words, sweet memories, and the thrill of bookish adventures. But why? Why do books do this to our senses?

Sci Show reveals that books are composed of paper, bindings, and ink. In turn, these three things contain chemical compounds. Over time, chemical compounds can be broken down thanks to the moisture, heat, and light in their surroundings. When this happens, volatile organic compounds (also known as VOCs) are unleashed into the air.


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