How does sniffing help odor molecules reach the olfactory epithelium?

Sniffing is a technique used to enhance the sense of smell by increasing the volume of air sampled through the nasal cavity.1

By sniffing, an animal can create turbulence within the nasal passages, which increases the likelihood that odor molecules will come into contact with the olfactory epithelium. This process is particularly effective for directing air toward the specialized olfactory receptors located in the upper part of the nasal cavity, where these molecules must dissolve in the mucous membrane to be detected. While normal breathing provides a continuous flow of air, the rapid, repetitive action of sniffing allows for a more concentrated and efficient delivery of scent particles to the sensory cells.123