Final Answer:
The study of smell is referred to as c. olfactics.
Step-by-step explanation:
c. Olfactics, the study of smell, explores the intricacies of the olfactory system, which is responsible for detecting and interpreting odors. This sensory process involves the detection of volatile chemical compounds through specialized receptors in the nasal cavity. The olfactory system plays a crucial role in the perception of aromas, influencing our experiences of taste and flavor.
Among the options provided, haptics (a) pertains to the study of touch, chronomics (b) is the study of time-related phenomena, occulesics (d) involves the study of eye behavior, and kinesics (e) encompasses the study of body language. Olfactics specifically focuses on the sense of smell, exploring how the olfactory system processes and interprets different odors.
Understanding olfaction is essential in various fields, including neuroscience, psychology, and food science. The study of olfactics not only contributes to our knowledge of sensory perception but also has practical applications, such as in the development of fragrances, flavors, and even in the diagnosis and treatment of certain medical conditions related to the sense of smell.
As a distinct branch of sensory science, olfactics enhances our understanding of how organisms perceive and interact with their environment through the sense of smell.