The different colours of leaves during the autumn season or fall is the result of chemical processes that occur in the tree. During summer and spring, the plant produces food for itself with the help of numerous cells containing chlorophyll. This process is done with the help of sunlight. Leaves also get their green colour in the process. However, in autumn, with the change in temperature and sunlight, the food-making process comes to a gradual halt. Chlorophyll breaks down and this is visible with the disappearance of green colour and appearance of yellow and red colour.
Why do leaves change colour in autumn?
