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Why do we cry? The three types of tears - Alex Gendler

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TEDEd Animation

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Whether we cry during a sad movie, while chopping onions, or completely involuntarily, our eyes are constantly producing tears. Alex Gendler tracks a particularly watery day in the life of Iris (the iris) as she cycles through basal, reflex and emotional tears.

What would happen if there were no lipid layer to keep the surface of tears smooth?

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About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Alex Gendler
  • Animator Nadav Arbel
  • Artist Nir Philosof
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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