The Chemistry Of Autumn Leaves

Every fall, Americans around the country get into the holiday spirit by appreciating the beauty of autumn leaves. As the seasons change from summer to fall, and then into winter, trees and plants take on a unique beauty with a mixture of red, orange, and yellow leaves. During the warm spring and summer seasons, common in places like Kansas City and Tulsa, OK, leaves make food to support the growth of their trees. But as temperatures cool down in the fall, leaves are forced to take a break from the food-making process. This infographic provides a deeper look into the chemical processes that take place in leaves during the autumn to give them their beautiful colors.