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DB
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What is the chemical/s in onions that make your eyes tear? And biologically, why do they tear?
Understanding the Chemistry and Biology Behind Onion Tears
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Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the chemical compounds in onions that cause tearing and the biological response associated with this phenomenon. Participants explore various remedies and methods to mitigate the effects of tearing while cutting onions.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant inquires about the specific chemicals in onions responsible for eye tearing and the biological mechanisms involved.
- Another participant suggests searching online for information, providing a link to a website that discusses remedies for the tearing effect.
- A different participant shares a personal remedy, stating that inhaling the onion's smell deeply causes immediate tearing but eventually alleviates discomfort.
- Another suggestion involves keeping the onion intact while cutting to avoid triggering the tearing response.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants present various remedies and methods without reaching a consensus on the most effective approach or fully agreeing on the underlying chemical and biological explanations.
Contextual Notes
The discussion lacks detailed scientific explanations of the chemical processes involved and does not clarify the biological mechanisms behind tearing. The effectiveness of the proposed remedies is based on personal experience rather than empirical evidence.
Who May Find This Useful
Individuals interested in culinary practices, the chemistry of food, or those seeking practical solutions to the discomfort of cutting onions may find this discussion relevant.
- #2
chroot
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- #3
pack_rat2
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From that web-site:
"There are all kinds of remedies for dealing with this irritating phenomenon, some more effective than others. As a general rule, move your head as far away from the onion as you can, so the gas will mostly disperse before it reaches your eyes. If you really can't stand the tears, the simplest solution might be to wear goggles..."
Actually, there's a method I've tried that works very well: breathe in the smell deeply! It causes your eyes to water a lot right away, but after a few seconds, you're no longer bothered.
"There are all kinds of remedies for dealing with this irritating phenomenon, some more effective than others. As a general rule, move your head as far away from the onion as you can, so the gas will mostly disperse before it reaches your eyes. If you really can't stand the tears, the simplest solution might be to wear goggles..."
Actually, there's a method I've tried that works very well: breathe in the smell deeply! It causes your eyes to water a lot right away, but after a few seconds, you're no longer bothered.
- #4
Monique
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Just keep the onion intact while you're cutting it 
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