Not a lot. :(
A sulfur-based gas is released when cutting onions. This gas mixes with the water-based liquid on your eyes to form a mild Sulfuric acid. That's why you cry.
A friend of mine says he uses swimming goggles when cutting onions. Sounds like a good theory to me, but I haven't tried it.
You are right about it giving off a sulfur-based gas and how it makes you cry, but it's a fact that if you chew gum while peeling an onion it will reduce tears. :~)
peeling onions
Try putting your onions in the refrigerator before peeling and chopping or just buy onions already chopped in the freezer section.
By chewing gum when peeling onions, you can stop yourself from crying.
it is true that if you chew gum while cutting onions you will not cry
Chewing gum while peeling onions will keep you from crying.
they don't cry
Yes
i think near about 70% people are cry when they cut onions including me.
The quickest method for peeling pearl onions is to blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath. This will make the skins easier to peel off.
chill the onions before cuttin it
allinases
Because it is the strong potency coming from the onion that reacts with the eye.