India, Aug. 22 -- There is no feeling quite like walking into a dusty second-hand bookstore, grabbing a paperback, opening it straight to the middle, and taking a massive, unhinged sniff. No judgment here. We've all done it. That cosy, slightly sweet aroma feels like a warm hug for your soul. Also read | Everyday explained: Why do elevators almost always have mirrors? Know the real reason

But have you ever wondered why decaying paper smells like perfection? It turns out you aren't just inhaling dust - you are enjoying a naturally aged chemical cocktail. Science has officially stepped into the library, and the truth behind that 'old book smell' is wilder than you think.

Ever wonder why an old library smells a bit like a bakery? As paper ...