A sign of autumn is when leaves on some trees start to change colour. The green colour starts to fade to be replaced by red, orange or yellow. Do you know why leaves change colour in autumn?
This infographic from the Forestry Commission explains brilliantly.
Why do leaves change colour in autumn?
Plants make energy by a process called photosynthesis. They convert carbon dioxide from the air, water and sunlight into energy and oxygen. A chemical pigment called chlorophyll absorbs the sunlight for photosynthesis and also gives the leaves their green colour, there is so much chlorophyll in the leaf that is masks the other colours, such as Carotene which is yellow.
In Autumn, when the temperature starts to drop the tree severs the connection with the leaves and the chlorophyll breaks down, revealing the other colours in the leaves. Eventually the leaves fall to the ground. We call these trees Deciduous.
I’ve got some fun photosynthesis experiments if you want to take a look.
Why do some trees stay green?
Some trees stay green all year round, we call these Evergreen trees. These trees keep their leaves all winter and so still need the chlorophyll to make energy. You’ll notice that the leaves on Evergreen trees are usually smaller and often have a waxy layer which helps prevent water loss in the winter, they also produce a chemical which stops them freezing! How clever is that.
Autumn Craft
- Can you go out and collect some colourful Autumn leaves?
- What could you make with them?
How about making your own Autumn tree?
Or, a leaf crown like Red Ted Art?
how have i got this far in life and never known that. And why did I never ask. I am so glad I read this post because Goblin is in a real questioning phase at the moment and its just the kind of thing he might ask.