What type of smells are identified through orthonasal olfaction?

Orthonasal olfaction refers to the detection of smells through the nostrils, where aromas are inhaled directly from the environment. This process is primarily responsible for our ability to perceive scents while smelling them directly, such as when we take a deep sniff of a beer or food.

In contrast, retronasal olfaction involves the aromas that are perceived as they travel from the back of the throat to the nasal passage during the act of eating, which corresponds more to the sensations experienced during consumption rather than directly sniffing. Thus, choice B accurately describes the process of orthonasal olfaction by focusing on the direct inhalation of aromas through the nose.