Will chilling and onion before cutting it stop the crying?

Yes, chilling an onion before cutting it can help reduce the amount of crying that occurs. When onions are cut, they release a gas called syn-propanethial-S-oxide (SPSO), which is what causes the eyes to tear up. Chilling the onion slows down the release of this gas, giving the eyes time to adjust and produce fewer tears.

Here's the scientific explanation behind why chilling an onion helps:

1. Temperature Effect: When an onion is chilled, its cells become less active, including those responsible for releasing SPSO. The lower temperature slows down the enzymatic reactions that produce SPSO, reducing its release into the air.

2. Diffusion Rate: Chilling also affects the diffusion rate of SPSO. At lower temperatures, the movement of molecules is slower, including the diffusion of SPSO gas. This means that the SPSO released by the onion has less chance of reaching the eyes, resulting in fewer tears.

3. Tear Production: When cutting an onion, the SPSO gas comes into contact with the cornea of the eye, stimulating the release of tears as a natural defense mechanism to wash away the irritant. Chilling the onion reduces the amount of SPSO released, resulting in less irritation and, therefore, less tearing.

It's important to note that while chilling an onion can help reduce crying, it doesn't eliminate it completely. Some individuals may still experience some tearing even after chilling the onion. Additionally, other methods, such as using a sharp knife, cutting the onion under running water, or wearing goggles, can also be effective in minimizing onion-induced tears.