MadSci Network: General Biology |
Hi Katie, Tears are made from... water! (but you already knew this I guess...) They contain Sodium Chloride (NaCl) which accounts for the salty taste. In fact, the sodium chloride concentration in tears is about the same as the one of oceans, evidently a consequence of our aqueous past. Tears also contain a little bit of mucus, a lot of antibodies and plenty of lysozyme, an antibacterial enzyme. These components protect, humidify, and lubricate the eye surface so that it stays healthy and shiny. I hope this answers your question. Sincerely, Mike
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