Olfactory nerves. Also known as CN1, the olfactory nerve is the first of 12 cranial nerves located within the head. It relays sensory data to the brain, and it is responsible for the sense of smell. The nerve's olfactory receptors are located within the mucosa of the nasal cavity.

What is the main function of olfactory nerve?

The olfactory nerve is purely a sensory nerve that functions for the sense of smell.

How does olfactory work in the body?

Each cell is connected to an olfactory neuron, or nerve cell. The cilia trap the inhaled odour molecules. The information on the molecules is transmitted to the olfactory neurons, then relayed via the nervous system to the brain, where the smell is processed and experienced.