Abstract: An apparatus for the detection of odor has a dielectric sensor having a dielectric potential responsive to absorbed odor molecules, carrier gas flow for directing a substantially uniform flow of carrier gas into contact with the sensor and a detector for detecting the dielectric potential of the sensor. In accordance with certain preferred embodiments, the sensor is at least partially permeable to the flow of the carrier gas. Methods for detection of odors employing apparatus of this invention are also disclosed. Thus, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, known and unknown samples are entrained into the carrier gas for contact with the dielectric sensor. A curve of the dielectric potential of the sensor taken over a period of time for each of the samples is prepared and the curves compared to determine the identity and concentration of the odors.