Question

Why are tears salty?

Answer 1

Salty tears:

1. Tears are made up of 98% water and 2% salts such as oils, salts, and proteins.
2. All the fluids in our body are salty because of the presence of electrolytes (natural salts).
3. Tears are released through the tear duct from the lacrimal glands present under the eyelids.
4. Functions of the tear to protect and provide nourishment to the eyes.
5. It helps in cleaning the eyes and keeping them hydrated.
6. The chemical composition and salinity of tears differ based on situation and type. Tears can either be a reflex, basal or psychic.
   1. Basal tears keep the cornea moist
   2. Eye irritation produces reflex tears.
   3. Weeping produces psychic tears.
7. The salinity of tears is due to sodium and potassium.