What is olfactory adaptation?

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Definition of Olfactory Adaptation**: Olfactory adaptation, also known as olfactory fatigue, refers to the decreased sensitivity to a particular odor after prolonged exposure to that odor.

2. **Mechanism of Olfactory Adaptation**: When we are continuously exposed to airborne compounds (odors), the olfactory receptors in our nose become less responsive. This leads to a situation where we can no longer distinguish or perceive the specific odor.

3. **Physiological Process**: The olfactory cells, which are responsible for detecting smells, experience rapid fatigue. This means that they become less effective at sending signals to the brain about the presence of the odor after being stimulated for a long time.

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