At first, you can barely concentrate in your psychology class because the guy sitting behind you is eating a hamburger smothered in onions. After a minute, you no longer notice the smell of his sandwich because:
A)the airborne molecules released by the onions have blocked your odor receptor cells.
B)your thalamus is no longer processing olfactory signals.
C)your odor receptor cells have increased in sensitivity.
D)sensory adaptation has taken place.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sensory adaptation is the process by which our senses become less sensitive to constant stimuli. In this scenario, the constant exposure to the smell of onions has caused a decrease in sensitivity, leading to the inability to notice the smell after a few minutes.

At First, You Can Barely Concentrate in Your Psychology Class