NewsThe chemisty of Autumn leaf colours

This year Autumn officially started on Sunday September 22, 2024 (day of the fall equinox) and will end on Saturday December 21, 2024, with the winter solstice.

 

Do you know why the autumn leaves are different colours?

 

Anthocyanins absorb blue, blue-green, and green light, causing leaves with anthocyanins to reflect red light. In contrast to chlorophyll and carotenoids, anthocyanins are not bound to cell membranes. They are produced within the cell through a light-triggered, energy-intensive process.

 

 

 

Credit to Compound Interest for use of imagery.