Petrichor: The Smell of Rain, and a Tricky Crossword Clue
Calling all crossword enthusiasts! Today we’re tackling a particularly fascinating clue that has sent many a solver scrambling for their dictionaries. It’s a clue that plays on our senses, evoking a specific aroma that often accompanies the first drops of rain.
The clue reads simply:
“Petrichor is the aroma produced by this.”
At first glance, it seems straightforward enough. We know petrichor is that earthy, musky scent that lingers after a rainstorm. But the clue’s trickiness lies in its wording. It doesn’t ask for the source of petrichor directly; instead, it focuses on the
process
that creates the aroma.
This is where the challenge begins. We need to dig deeper than simply identifying the elements involved in the smell of rain. We need to understand the
mechanism
behind its creation.
Think about it: what’s happening on the ground when rain hits dry earth? What specific elements are interacting to produce that distinctive scent? The answer lies not just in the rain itself, but also in the unseen processes that occur beneath our feet.
Don’t get discouraged if you’re stumped. This is a clue that rewards thoughtful observation and a bit of scientific knowledge. Remember, every crossword clue is a puzzle, and the joy lies in untangling the pieces to reveal the solution.
So, put on your thinking caps, crossword solvers. Get ready to explore the hidden world of petrichor and uncover the answer to this intriguing clue!
Available Answers:
RAIN.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 12 Sep 24, Thursday