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autumn

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Definition

Autumn, also known as fall, is one of the four temperate seasons. It is the season between summer and winter. In the Northern Hemisphere, autumn begins on September 22 or 23 and ends on December 21 or 22. In the Southern Hemisphere, autumn begins on March 20 or 21 and ends on June 20 or 21.

Autumn is a time of change. The days get shorter and the nights get longer. The leaves on the trees change colour and fall to the ground. The weather becomes cooler and there is often a chance of rain or snow.

Autumn is a beautiful time of year. The changing leaves are a sight to behold. And the cooler weather is perfect for spending time outdoors.

There are many different plants and animals that are active in autumn. Some of the most common include:

  • Birds: Many birds migrate south for the winter, but some stay in autumn to feed on the abundance of berries and seeds.
  • Insects: Insects are also active in autumn, but they start to die off as the weather gets colder.
  • Fungi: Mushrooms and other fungi start to grow in autumn.
  • Wildlife: Deer, bears, and other animals start to prepare for winter by storing food and building nests.

Autumn is a time of transition. It is a time to say goodbye to summer and hello to winter. But it is also a time to enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons.

How can the word be used?

We went for a walk in the autumn woods.

autumn

Different forms of the word

Noun: Autumn (the season between summer and winter).

Adjective: autumnal (of or relating to autumn).

Adverb: autumnally (in a way that is characteristic of autumn).

Verb: autumnise (to make something autumnal).

Etymology

The word "autumn" comes from the Latin word autumnus, which means "autumn" or "fall." The Latin word autumnus is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root autu-, which means "to dry up.".

Question

What words might you use to describe the season of Autumn?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Describe the key biological events and ecological impacts associated with the season of autumn.

Answer:

Autumn, also known as fall, is a season characterised by various biological events and ecological transformations in temperate regions. The changes during autumn are triggered by the decrease in daylight hours and the gradual cooling of temperatures.

Key Biological Events in Autumn:

  • Leaf Colour Change: As daylight decreases, chlorophyll production in leaves diminishes, leading to the breakdown of green pigments and revealing other colours such as red, orange, and yellow. This phenomenon is known as leaf colour change and is a prominent visual characteristic of autumn.
  • Leaf Shedding: During autumn, deciduous trees and plants shed their leaves as a survival strategy to conserve water and energy during the cold winter months. The shedding is triggered by the formation of an abscission layer that cuts off the flow of nutrients to the leaves.
  • Migration and Hibernation: Many animal species, such as birds and some mammals, undertake migration to warmer regions with abundant food sources. Others, like certain rodents and bears, enter a state of hibernation to conserve energy and survive the scarcity of food in winter.
  • Reproduction and Seed Dispersal: Some plant species produce fruits and seeds during autumn, taking advantage of animals for seed dispersal. Animals consume the fruits, and the seeds are later deposited in new locations, aiding in plant propagation.