Petrichor, the Smell of Rain (IMAGE) American Chemical Society Caption The smell that accompanies a spring shower is so evocative that it has its own word: petrichor. Watch as Reactions explores the unique chemistry behind the smell of rain: https://youtu.be/2txpbrjnLiY. Credit The American Chemical Society Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.