Question

You notice in the fall that the oak trees on campus change color at slightly different times, even though the environment is the same for all the trees. What is the most likely explanation?

Answer 1

The oak trees on campus change color at different times due to genetic differences that result in varying responses to shortened day lengths and cooler temperatures, which trigger the change in leaf color.

Step-by-step explanation:

The oak trees on campus changing color at slightly different times in the fall, despite being in the same environment, is most likely due to genetic differences between the trees. Each oak tree may have a slightly different genetic makeup, which can affect when the chlorophyll production decreases and thus when the colors of the leaves change. While environmental triggers like shorter days and cooler temperatures initiate the process, the specific timing can vary even among the same species because of these genetic differences. This variation is an example of how individual oak trees may respond differently to the same environmental factors.