Final answer:
Olfactory organs are masses of olfactory receptor cells located in the upper nasal cavity, playing a key role in our sense of smell by detecting odor molecules through cilia in the olfactory epithelium.
Step-by-step explanation:
The olfactory organs are yellowish brown masses of specialized sensory epithelium that are located in the upper parts of the nasal cavity, particularly the superior nasal conchae, and a portion of the nasal septum. These olfactory organs contain olfactory receptor cells that detect odors. Small hair-like extensions from these receptors, known as cilia, protrude into the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity. These cilia serve as sites where odor molecules dissolved in the mucus can interact with the olfactory receptors.
Once the odor molecules bind to the receptors, this triggers a chemical response within the cells. The olfactory receptor cells are bipolar neurons that send signals to the olfactory bulb, located at the base of the brain. From the olfactory bulb, information about the odors is carried to different parts of the brain, including regions of the limbic system and the primary olfactory cortex. The olfactory system is essential for our sense of smell, which is responsive to a variety of chemical stimuli.