What is the primary source of tears during emotional response?

The primary source of tears during an emotional response is the lacrimal gland. This gland is specifically designed to produce and secrete the aqueous layer of the tear film, which is essential for maintaining eye health and providing lubrication. When a person experiences emotions such as sadness, joy, or frustration, the brain sends signals to the lacrimal gland to increase tear production. This results in the formation of tears that can be shed as a response to those emotions.

In contrast, the other glands listed serve different purposes. Meibomian glands produce the lipid layer of tears, which prevents evaporation and contributes to tear stability, but they are not involved in emotional tear production. Conjunctival glands primarily produce mucus, which helps to coat the ocular surface, while goblet cells within the conjunctiva also contribute to the mucous layer of the tear film but are not responsible for the increased tear production seen with emotional stimuli. Thus, the lacrimal gland is the key player in responding to emotional triggers with tear secretion.