A. Because the moisture is absorbed from the wood; and, as the particles are brought closer together, the size of the door is lessened, (or in other words, the wood shrinks).
Q. Why is the air filled with offensive smells previous to a coming rain?
A. Because the volatile parts, (which rise from dunghills, sewers, &c.), being laden with vapour, are unable to rise so readily, as when they are rarefied by a bright sun.
Q. Why do flowers smell sweeter and stronger just previous to rain?
A. Because the volatile parts (which constitute the perfume of flowers) are laden with vapour; and (being unable to rise) are confined to the lower regions of the air.
Q. Why do horses and other animals stretch out their necks, and snuff up the air, just previous to a fall of rain?
A. Because they smell the odour of plants and hay, and delight to snuff in their fragrance.
Q. Why does smoke fall when rain is at hand?
A. The air being less dense in wet weather, cannot buoy up smoke so readily, as when more dry and heavy.