[Verse 1]
In the after-storm
There’s ions everywhere
A fresh feeling born
Smell it in the air
In the after-storm
Becoming self-aware
A fresh feeling born
Taste it in the air
[Chorus]
The leaves turned upside down
And then, right side up
The winds whirled around
The rain pouring down
[Bridge]
Bathing in a serene scene
I’m sublime
In time
Ozone
Not alone
Quicker
Petrichor
[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]
[Verse 2]
In the after-storm
The atmosphere is clear
A fresh feeling born
See it far and near
In the after-storm
The sound is crystal clear
A fresh feeling born
Hear it it far and near
[Chorus]
The leaves turned upside down
And then, right side up
The winds whirled around
The rain pouring down
[Bridge]
Bathing in a serene scene
I’m sublime
In time
The air there
And all around
Carries sound
[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Bass]
[Outro]
Bathing in a serene scene
I’m sublime
In time
A SCIENCE NOTE
After a storm, the atmosphere undergoes several changes that contribute to the characteristic “fresh” smell and taste, as well as improved sight and sound. Here are the key factors involved:
Fresh Smell and Taste
- Ozone Production:
- Lightning during a storm can produce ozone (O₃) by splitting oxygen molecules (O₂) in the atmosphere, which then recombine to form ozone. Ozone has a distinct, sharp smell often described as “clean” or “fresh,” which can be noticeable after a storm.
- Petrichor:
- Petrichor is the earthy smell produced when rain falls on dry soil. The term was coined by scientists to describe the combination of oils secreted by plants during dry periods and a compound called geosmin, produced by soil-dwelling bacteria. When rain hits the ground, these compounds are released into the air, contributing to the fresh, earthy aroma.
- Negative Ions:
- Storms, especially those involving thunder and lightning, can increase the concentration of negative ions in the air. These ions are believed to contribute to the fresh smell and may also improve mood and well-being. Negative ions can help clear the air of pollutants and allergens, enhancing the perception of freshness.
Improved Sight
- Air Purification:
- Rainfall can help cleanse the air by removing dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. This process, known as “wet deposition,” results in cleaner air, which can improve visibility and make colors appear more vivid.
- Humidity and Light Scattering:
- The increased humidity following a storm can enhance the scattering of light, making the sky appear clearer and the air crisper. This effect can enhance visual clarity and the perception of distance.
Improved Sound
- Sound Propagation:
- The atmosphere’s composition and temperature profile change after a storm, which can affect how sound travels. Cooler, cleaner air with higher humidity can carry sound waves more efficiently, making sounds appear clearer and sharper.
- Reduced Background Noise:
- The rain can dampen and wash away dust and particles that contribute to background noise. Additionally, the post-storm calm, with less wind and other disturbances, can create a quieter environment, allowing sounds to be heard more distinctly.
The fresh smell and taste after a storm result from ozone production, petrichor, and increased negative ions. The improved sight is due to the cleansing of airborne particles and changes in light scattering, while the enhanced sound quality arises from better sound propagation conditions and reduced background noise. These combined effects create the distinct post-storm sensory experience.