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Name: David C.
Status: student
Age: 5
Location: N/A
Country: N/A
Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2002
Question:
Why do leaves NOT change color when you cover them with duct tape? (The part that is not covered still changes color.)

Replies:
In the fall, chlorophyll breaks down. One could guess that the duct tape provides a cover/shield/blanket so that the chlorophyll beneath the duct tape does not break down at the same time.

Possibly helpful:

http://www.esf.edu/pubprog/brochure/leaves/leaves.htm

http://www.angelfire.com/biz6/PreciousHolidays/TheChangingFall.htm

http://sps.k12.ar.us/massengale/chromatography_of_simulated_plan.htm

Anthony R. Brach, Ph.D.

Very observant for a 5 year old. A chance to do some good science even at this early age!!!

1. Test whether the color changes if black paper is used in place of duct tape.

2. Is there a difference if you do the experiment outside, inside, or in a dark closet.

3. Do different kinds of leaves behave differently? What if you use "Scotch tape", adhesive tape, electrical tape instead of duct tape?

Very nice experiment for an inquisitive mind. Go for it!!!

Vince Calder


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