Leaves change color in autumn due to a fascinating chemical process. During summer, leaves contain high levels of chlorophyll, which gives them their green color and helps with photosynthesis. As days grow shorter and temperatures cool, trees stop producing chlorophyll, revealing other pigments that were always present but hidden:
- Carotenoids produce yellow and orange colors
- Anthocyanins create red and purple hues
- Tannins result in brown colors
Weather conditions affect the intensity of fall colors – bright sunny days and cool nights typically produce the most vibrant displays. The timing of color change varies by tree species and geographic location.