Smell is the only sense that does not have to pass through the _____ before reaching its destination in the brain.

• A. thalamus
• B. hippocampus
• C. hypothalamu
• D. amgdala

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the thalamus in sensory processing: The thalamus acts as a relay station for most sensory information, directing it to the appropriate areas of the brain for further processing.
2. Identify the unique pathway of the olfactory system: Unlike other senses, the sense of smell bypasses the thalamus and sends information directly to the olfactory cortex.
3. Recognize the destination of olfactory signals: Olfactory signals are sent directly to the olfactory bulb and then to the olfactory cortex, which is part of the limbic system involved in emotion and memory.
4. Consider the other options: The hippocampus is primarily involved in memory formation, the hypothalamus regulates bodily functions, and the amygdala is involved in emotion processing.
5. Conclude that the sense of smell is unique in that it does not pass through the thalamus, making 'thalamus' the correct answer.