Skunks are nocturnal animals that prefer to keep to themselves.

However, when they sense danger, this lurking purveyor of biochemical warfare unleashes its primary defense mechanism: a nasty-smelling spray.

Similar to tear gas, the scent is so strong it can can cause your eyes to start dripping and make you nauseous.

This week on Reactions, get ready for some stinky chemistry as we take a closer look at the compounds that give skunk spray its distinctively horrendous odor: