Skip to main content

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

6,827,305 Views

7,211 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

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.

Why are emotional tears triggered by happiness as well as sadness?

Sign in to answer question

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

More from Getting Under Our Skin