Why do trees lose their leaves in the winter?
Trees lose their leaves during the winter as a result of two main factors: temperature and light.

Temperature is one of the major drivers of leaf loss, as low temperatures can cause leaves to become frozen or dried out. When temperatures fall below freezing, plants cease photosynthesis, which is the process by which they convert sunlight into energy. This results in the loss of green leaves.

Additionally, when sunlight levels are lower during the winter months, tree foliage may not receive enough sunlight to sustain itself. As a result, some branches may decidue (or break off) while others may remain on the tree.

Light also plays an important role in determining whether a tree will keep its leaves through the winter. During periods of bright sunlight, trees continue to produce new leaves. However, as the days grow shorter and darker, fewer hours of direct sunlight reach the forest floor. This means that many trees will eventually stop producing new leaves, leading to the eventual shedding of old ones.

In summary, both temperature and light play a significant role in causing leaf loss in trees during the winter. By understanding these processes, we can better predict how forests will respond to changing climate conditions.