The reason that deciduous leaves turn bright colors of red and yellow in the fall is
A)chlorophyll is converted into bright carotenoid pigments.
B)when chlorophyll breaks down,the remaining pigments other than green will show through.
C)it is a chemical reaction involving the formation of ice crystals.
D)bright pigments are shifted from the roots and stem to the leaves while sugars and chlorophyll are pumped down to the roots.
E)a shift in the reflectance values of light is caused by the sun being lower in the sky; all leaf pigments actually remain the same.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As the days get shorter and temperatures cool, the chlorophyll in the leaves breaks down and the remaining pigments other than green - orange and yellow carotenoids, and red or purple anthocyanins - become visible, causing the leaves to turn various shades of red, orange, and yellow.

The Reason That Deciduous Leaves Turn Bright Colors of Red