The red, organe and yellow colours of autumn leaves are caused by light reflected from

Options

A. Chlorophyll a
B. Chlorophyll b
C. Chlorophyll d
D. Carotenoids

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks which pigments are responsible for the red, orange, and yellow colors seen in autumn leaves.

2. **Identifying the Pigments**: The options provided include chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B, and carotenoids. We need to determine which of these pigments is responsible for the autumn colors.

3. **Role of Chlorophyll**: Chlorophyll is the pigment primarily responsible for the green color in leaves. It absorbs light energy for photosynthesis. During the summer, chlorophyll levels are high, masking other pigments.

4. **Understanding Carotenoids**: Carotenoids are pigments that produce red, orange, and yellow colors. They are present in leaves alongside chlorophyll but are usually masked by the dominant green of chlorophyll during the summer.

5. **Seasonal Changes**: In autumn, as temperatures drop and daylight decreases, chlorophyll begins to degrade. This degradation allows the carotenoids to become more visible, revealing the red, orange, and yellow colors.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the red, orange, and yellow colors of autumn leaves are caused by light reflected from carotenoids, as chlorophyll is degraded during this season.

**Final Answer**: The red, orange, and yellow colors of autumn leaves are caused by light reflected from **carotenoids**.

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