Why Do Leaves Change Color? Let's Read and Find Out Science

You may have noticed that the leaves on trees change color in the fall. Have you ever wondered why? This book will tell you all about the science behind why leaves change color. You'll also learn about the different types of trees and the different colors that their leaves can change. So, get ready to learn all about why leaves change color!

Why Do Leaves Change Color? (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

by Betsy Maestro

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13730 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE

The Science Behind Why Leaves Change Color

The leaves on trees change color because of a process called photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, a type of sugar that the plant can use for energy. The green pigment in leaves, called chlorophyll, absorbs sunlight and uses it to power photosynthesis.

In the fall, the days get shorter and the nights get longer. This means that there is less sunlight available for photosynthesis. As a result, the chlorophyll in leaves breaks down and the leaves lose their green color. Other pigments in the leaves, such as carotenoids and anthocyanins, become more visible and give the leaves their fall colors.

The Different Types of Trees and the Different Colors Their Leaves Can Change

There are many different types of trees, and each type of tree has different pigments in its leaves. This means that the leaves of different types of trees can change different colors in the fall.

• Maple trees: Maple trees are known for their beautiful fall foliage. The leaves of maple trees can change color to red, orange, yellow, or purple.
• Oak trees: Oak trees are another type of tree that is known for its fall foliage. The leaves of oak trees can change color to red, orange, brown, or yellow.
• Birch trees: Birch trees have white bark and yellow leaves in the fall.
• Aspen trees: Aspen trees have silver bark and golden yellow leaves in the fall.
• Pine trees: Pine trees are evergreen trees, which means that they do not lose their leaves in the fall. However, the needles of pine trees can turn brown or yellow in the winter.

Why Do Leaves Change Color?

The leaves on trees change color in the fall because of a process called photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, a type of sugar that the plant can use for energy. The green pigment in leaves, called chlorophyll, absorbs sunlight and uses it to power photosynthesis.

In the fall, the days get shorter and the nights get longer. This means that there is less sunlight available for photosynthesis. As a result, the chlorophyll in leaves breaks down and the leaves lose their green color. Other pigments in the leaves, such as carotenoids and anthocyanins, become more visible and give the leaves their fall colors.

The Different Types of Trees and the Different Colors Their Leaves Can Change

There are many different types of trees, and each type of tree has different pigments in its leaves. This means that the leaves of different types of trees can change different colors in the fall.

• Maple trees: Maple trees are known for their beautiful fall foliage. The leaves of maple trees can change color to red, orange, yellow, or purple.
• Oak trees: Oak trees are another type of tree that is known for its fall foliage. The leaves of oak trees can change color to red, orange, brown, or yellow.
• Birch trees: Birch trees have white bark and yellow leaves in the fall.
• Aspen trees: Aspen trees have silver bark and golden yellow leaves in the fall.
• Pine trees: Pine trees are evergreen trees, which means that they do not lose their leaves in the fall. However, the needles of pine trees can turn brown or yellow in the winter.

Now you know all about why leaves change color in the fall. Next time you see a tree with beautiful fall foliage, you can appreciate the science behind it. You can also use your new knowledge to impress your friends and family!

Why Do Leaves Change Color? (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

by Betsy Maestro

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13730 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE