The chemistry behind the colors of autumn leaves infographic

The chemistry BEHIND THE COLORS OF AUTUMN LEAVES Orange • Chlorophyll gives leaves their • Orange leaves contain' green color. beta-carotene. • Plants produce chlorophyll in sunlight • Beta-carotene contributes to orange colors in vegetables. and warm weather. • Chlorophyll production decreases during • Orange carotenoids decrease at a far slower autumn. rate than chlorophyll. Sellow Red • Carotenoids are responsible for yellow leaves. • The color red is triggered by anthocyanin synthesis. • Carotenoids are yellow pigments also found in vegetables. • Anthocyanin helps protect leaves from excess light. • Yellow colors become dominant when chlorophyll decreases. • Anthocyanin prolongs the time that leaves fall from trees. SOURCES: http://www.esf.edu/pubprog/brochure/leaves/leaves.htm http://www.compoundchem.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Chemistry- RVAN of-the-Colours-of-Autumn-Leaves-v2.png BBIGSHOT LAWN & TREE INBOUND