General Science

General Studies (CGL)

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When we cut an onion, the vegetable emits an odour and our eyes tear up. Which of the following compounds is responsible for

the tears and odour resulting from freshly cut onions?

This questions was previously asked in

SSC CGL 18th August 2021 Shift-3

Ascorbic acid

Sulphuric acid

Citric acid

Acetic acid

- When we cut an onion, enzymes break down sulfur-containing compounds, forming a volatile gas called syn-Propanethial-S-oxide.

- This gas reaches the eyes and reacts with the water in our tears, creating mild sulfuric acid, which causes irritation and tearing.

- The odour and tearing are both linked to these sulfur compounds, but it's not the same as plain sulfuric acid.

- Option 1: Ascorbic acid is vitamin C and not involved here.

- Option 2: Sulphuric acid (??) is the correct answer among the given choices, as the process leads to mild sulfuric acid formation in tears.

- Option 3: Citric acid is found in citrus fruits, not onions.

- Option 4: Acetic acid is found in vinegar.

- So, the best match for the effect when cutting onions is Sulphuric acid.