As onions are sliced, cells are broken, allowing enzymes called alliinases to break down sulfides and generate sulfenic acids (amino acid sulfoxides). Sulphenic acids are unstable and decompose into a volatile gas called syn-propanethial-S-oxide. The gas dissipates through the air and eventually reaches the eye, where it reacts with the water to form a dilute solution of sulfuric acid. This acid irritates the nerve endings in the eye, making them sting. Tear glands produce tears to dilute and flush out the irritant.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
now you know ... you big baby.
from here:
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2 comments:
aaaaaaahhh. i was wondering why you made me cry.
if some people cry more than others when cutting onions does that mean some are more resistant to sulphuric acid? because that would be a pretty sweet super power!
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