Science
Why Do Onions Make Us Cry?
You are not sad. So why do your eyes water when someone cuts an onion?
The short answer
Cutting an onion breaks open its cells and starts chemical reactions that release an irritating substance into the air.
Let’s explore
- Cutting an onion breaks open its cells and starts chemical reactions that release an irritating substance into the air.
- When it reaches our eyes, our eyes produce tears to help protect themselves and wash the irritation away.
Quick Quiz
- What is the short answer to “Why Do Onions Make Us Cry?”?
- Can you explain one key fact in your own words?
- What new question would you like to explore next?
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