Duct Tape and Leaf Color
Name: David C.
Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2002
Why do leaves NOT change color when you cover them with
duct tape? (The part that is not covered still changes color.)
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.
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
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
Very nice experiment for an inquisitive mind. Go for it!!!
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Update: June 2012