Understanding Why Onions Make You Cry

Onions make you cry due to sulfur compounds absorbed from the soil. Cutting onions releases enzymes and amino acid sulfoxides, forming syn-propanethial s-oxide gas, which irritates your eyes and triggers tears. Refrigerating onions or wearing goggles can reduce irritation. Sulfur compounds also contribute to onion flavor.

What is the plant genus to which onions belong?

• Capsicum

• Brassica

• Allium

• Solanum

What gas is formed when onions are cut, causing irritation to the eyes?

• Carbon monoxide

• Methane

• Syn-propanethial s-oxide

• Sulfur dioxide

Which part of the body detects the irritant gas released by onions?

• Central nervous system

• Sensory nerves on the eye surface

• Lacrimal glands

• Nasal cavity

What is one method to reduce the release of irritant gases while cutting onions?

• Refrigerating onions before cutting

• Peeling onions slowly

• Cutting onions under hot water

• Using a sharp knife

What is the connection between sulfur compounds and onion flavor?

• Sulfur compounds reduce onion flavor

• Sulfur compounds only affect onion texture

• Sulfur compounds enhance onion flavor

• Sulfur compounds make onions tasteless