Final answer:
Human beings have about 350 olfactory receptor subtypes that allow us to sense about 10,000 different odors. Both taste and smell work together to create the perception of flavor. If a person has congested nasal passages, their perception of flavor may be reduced.
Step-by-step explanation:
Human beings have about 350 olfactory receptor subtypes that allow us to sense about 10,000 different odors. This is fewer than some other mammals, such as mice, which have about 1,300 olfactory receptor types and can likely sense more odors. Both taste and smell involve molecules that stimulate specific chemoreceptors. Humans usually distinguish taste and smell as separate senses, but they actually work together to create the perception of flavor. If a person has congested nasal passages, their perception of flavor may be reduced.