Why do Leaves Change Color?

Let's investigate the chemistry behind fall colors with this ACS video

Written byAmerican Chemical Society
| 1 min read

The telltale signs of autumn are here: Crisp weather, pumpkin spice lattes and most importantly, the leaves are changing colors. Ever wonder why some leaves turn red, others yellow and some just turn brown? It's all down to chlorophyll (more like bore-ophyll!) and the glucose stored inside trees that help reveal the reds, yellows and, less excitingly, browns of fall foliage. 

Loading Next Article...
Loading Next Article...

CURRENT ISSUE - January/February 2026

How to Build Trust Into Every Lab Result

Applying the Six Cs Helps Labs Deliver Results Stakeholders Can Rely On

Lab Manager January/February 2026 Cover Image