I don’t know about you, but I always avoid slicing onions. I just can’t stand the tears.
But do you know why chopping onions makes us cry? Well, as an I’m A Useless Info Junkie reader you should know and that’s why we prepared this article for you.
Here’s how it goes. (the article continues after the ad)
When we chop fresh onions, a chemical called syn-propanethial-S-oxide is produced. This chemical is released into the air and when it reaches the eye, it’s mixed with the eye’s water to form a weak sulfenic acid which stimulates the eye. Because of this irritation, the eye’s lachrymal glands start producing tears in order to wash away the irritating chemical and this is why we cry when you slice onions.
If you like what you read, then you will definitely love this one: This Is What Makes Popcorn Pop
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Sources: Why does chopping an onion make you cry? | Ever Wonder Why?: Here Are the Answers!