Which sensory system would primarily involve the detection of airborne chemical substances?

The olfactory system is primarily responsible for detecting airborne chemical substances. This system utilizes specialized sensory receptors in the nasal cavity that respond to volatile compounds in the air. When these chemicals are inhaled, they bind to olfactory receptors, which send signals to the brain, allowing us to perceive different scents. This process is crucial for various functions, including identifying food, detecting dangers such as smoke or spoiled items, and even influencing emotion and memory through the connection between smell and the limbic system.

The gustatory system, while also involved in the detection of substances, specifically pertains to taste and relies on substances dissolved in saliva rather than airborne chemicals. The visual system focuses on detecting light and images, and the auditory system pertains to sound waves and vibrations traveling through the air. Thus, the olfactory system is uniquely equipped to process the information conveyed by airborne chemicals, making it the correct choice in this context.