Final answer:
Olfactory cells are sensory neurons that detect (D) odors and are found in the olfactory epithelium in the nasal cavity, serving as receptors for the sense of smell. They respond to inhaled chemical stimuli, initiating signals that allow us to identify and perceive a wide range of odors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Olfactory cells are specialized neurons located in the superior nasal cavity, within a region known as the olfactory epithelium. These cells serve as receptors for the sense of smell (olfaction). When odorant molecules are inhaled, they dissolve in the mucous membrane and bind to receptors on the olfactory dendrites. These G protein-coupled receptors initiate a signal that is transmitted to the brain, where it is processed and identified as a specific smell. This complex process allows humans to detect a wide range of odors, contributing to our senses of flavor and environmental awareness.
Olfactory cells are the primary component in our olfactory system, which is responsible for our ability to detect and distinguish among thousands of different smells. This ability to perceive smells is critical for experiences such as enjoying food, detecting hazards, and various other biological processes.