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Multiple Choice
Which two events primarily trigger the breakdown of pigments, causing leaves to change color each fall?
A
Increased rainfall and higher humidity
B
Greater wind speed and soil nutrient depletion
C
Higher carbon dioxide levels and increased sunlight
D
Shorter day length and cooler temperatures
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that the question is asking about the environmental factors that lead to the breakdown of pigments in leaves during the fall season.
Recall that chlorophyll, the green pigment in leaves, begins to break down when environmental conditions change, revealing other pigments like carotenoids (yellow/orange) and anthocyanins (red/purple).
Recognize that shorter day length (less sunlight) reduces the production of chlorophyll, as photosynthesis slows down due to reduced light availability.
Understand that cooler temperatures also contribute to the breakdown of chlorophyll and the cessation of its production, as enzymatic activities involved in chlorophyll synthesis are temperature-dependent.
Conclude that the two primary triggers for the breakdown of pigments in leaves during fall are shorter day length and cooler temperatures, as these environmental changes signal the transition to winter.