What is the appropriate method for cutting onions to minimize tears?

The method of using a sharp knife to cut onions effectively minimizes tears because a sharp knife creates cleaner cuts through the onion's tissues, which helps to reduce the amount of cell damage. When an onion is cut, it releases enzymes and gases that can irritate the eyes and cause tearing. A dull knife crushes the onion cells more than it cuts them, leading to a higher release of these irritant compounds. By using a sharp knife, the cut is more precise, resulting in less cell rupture and a smaller release of the chemicals that cause tears.

Other methods, such as soaking the onion in vinegar, cutting under running water, or refrigerating the onion, may also provide benefits in reducing tearing, but they do not address the underlying issue of cell damage and gas release in the same direct manner as a sharp knife.