Which pigments are always present in leaves and become visible when chlorophyll breaks down in autumn?

Prepare for the Maryland Tree Expert Exam with our comprehensive study resources. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations to boost your confidence. Ace your exam with ease!

Multiple Choice

Which pigments are always present in leaves and become visible when chlorophyll breaks down in autumn?

Explanation:
Carotenoids are always present in leaves, giving yellow to orange hues. Chlorophyll masks these colors during the growing season, but as chlorophyll breaks down in autumn, the carotenoids become visible. Anthocyanins may appear in some species in fall but aren’t guaranteed present every year, since they’re produced in response to specific conditions. Lignin isn’t a pigment at all—it’s a structural component of cell walls. Chlorophyll itself is the pigment that fades, revealing carotenoids.

Carotenoids are always present in leaves, giving yellow to orange hues. Chlorophyll masks these colors during the growing season, but as chlorophyll breaks down in autumn, the carotenoids become visible. Anthocyanins may appear in some species in fall but aren’t guaranteed present every year, since they’re produced in response to specific conditions. Lignin isn’t a pigment at all—it’s a structural component of cell walls. Chlorophyll itself is the pigment that fades, revealing carotenoids.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy