In Threshold Odor Number analysis, which instrument is primarily used?

In Threshold Odor Number (TON) analysis, the primary instrument used is indeed the human nose. This approach relies on sensory evaluation, where trained panels of assessors are used to detect and quantify different odors in water samples. The human nose is sensitive to a wide range of odors and is capable of identifying and discerning subtle variations in olfactory stimuli, making it an effective tool for this type of analysis.

When determining the TON, assessors will often be exposed to diluted samples in increasing concentrations until the odor is detected. This method allows for the establishment of the threshold at which a specific odor becomes perceptible to the human senses. The subjective nature of odor perception is a key reason why the human nose is preferred for this analysis, as it can directly assess the impact of odors as they would be experienced by consumers.

In contrast, the other options listed, such as gas chromatographs, electronic noses, and PCR assays, serve different purposes. Gas chromatographs are used for the separation and analysis of volatile compounds but do not provide the human experiential aspect necessary for odor threshold determination. Electronic noses may simulate human olfaction to some extent, but they lack the nuanced perception of trained human assessors. PCR assays are molecular biology techniques used for amplifying DNA