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Why do our eyes water when we chop an onion?

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Our eyes contain tear glands, which are situated above each eyeball. Their job is to secrete tears to keep the eye moist and to flush out dirt. If any irritating substance reaches the eye, the tear glands automatically produce more tears to wash it away and clear the eye.

Onions contain certain chemical compounds known as amino acid sulphoxides. When you cut an onion, an enzyme is released that reacts with the sulphoxides to form a gas. This gas diffuses through the air and eventually reaches the eye, where it reacts with the water to form a diluted solution of sulphuric acid. This acid irritates the nerve endings of the eye, causing them to sting. The tear glands instantly react by producing tears to flush out the irritant.

If you wish to avoid the tears, try chopping the onions under running water or soaking them in water before cutting. Water absorbs the gas and neutralizes its effect. Or you could refrigerate the onion for a while before cutting. This freezes the enzyme and prevents it from reacting with the sulphoxides. Yet another method to protect your eyes from the stinging sensation is to wear glasses or goggles while chopping onions.
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