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Which region produces more than two-thirds of the world’s maple syrup?

Trivia: Which region produces more than two-thirds of the world’s maple syrup?

Quebec, Canada
Vermont, U.S.
Lapland, Finland
Queensland, Australia

Correct Answer: Quebec, Canada

So why is this answer correct? : The Canadian province of Quebec produces 70% of the world’s maple syrup. Maple syrup is harvested from trees in the early spring, but that didn’t stop it from becoming a staple flavor of fall. Aside from the maple tree’s delicious syrup, it is also the official state tree of several states that are known for their fall foliage, including New York, Rhode Island, Vermont (another leading syrup producer), West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

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What triggers tree leaves to begin changing color in the fall?

Trivia: What triggers tree leaves to begin changing color in the fall?

A decrease in sunlight
An increase in rain
A decrease in temperature
A seasonal fungus

Correct Answer: A decrease in sunlight

So why is this answer correct? : As warm summer days fade into fall, shorter days and longer nights give a signal to the trees to stop producing as much chlorophyll. Chlorophyll helps the trees’ leaves create energy during sunny days, but with shorter hours of daylight, the trees need a break to prepare for winter. Leaves change to different colors because of their chemical composition. The four main chemicals that cause this are chlorophyll (greens), xanthophylls (yellows), carotenoids (oranges), and anthocyanins (reds).

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Pumpkins are technically what kind of food?

Trivia: Pumpkins are technically what kind of food?

Legume
Fruit
Vegetable
Nut

Correct Answer: Fruit

So why is this answer correct? : One of the most beloved foods (and emblems) of fall in America, the pumpkin is a versatile ingredient that is commonly used in seasonal treats. Pumpkins have a more savory flavor profile, so they typically get lumped in with vegetables, but from a strictly scientific standpoint, they are a fruit. According to its definition, a fruit is the “fleshy or dry ripened ovary of a plant, enclosing the seed or seeds.” This also means that technically, a pumpkin is a giant berry, but pumpkins aren’t the only berries in disguise. By definition, watermelons, cucumbers, bananas, and tomatoes are also berries.

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Which of these is NOT part of the traditional pumpkin spice flavoring?

Trivia: Which of these is NOT part of the traditional pumpkin spice flavoring?

Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Ginger
Cumin

Correct Answer: Cumin

So why is this answer correct? : If there is one seasonal item to signal the return of fall, it might be the extremely sought-after (and mocked) pumpkin spice latte. This clever combination of spices is found in countless recipes, as well as seasonal foods like cereals, Jell-O, protein drinks, beer, and even dog treats. The first reported use of pumpkin spice occurred in a 1936 “Pumpkin Spice Cakes” recipe in “The Washington Post.” The ingredients typically include cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and pumpkin flavoring, though Allspice, cardamom, or sugar can also be added to the mix depending on the type of recipe.

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What tool is commonly used to collect autumn leaves?

Trivia: What tool is commonly used to collect autumn leaves?

Screwdriver
Rake
Plunger
Pliers

Correct Answer: Rake

So why is this answer correct? : As the seasons change, so do the colors of the leaves, which fall off the trees onto the ground in autumn. If you have a lawn, chances are, you’ve used a rake to collect those scattered leaves into a neat pile. Large amounts of loose leaves can damage the lawn, because the leaves obstruct nutrients from reaching the grass. That’s why collecting the leaves and bringing them to a composting site is the best way to maintain your lawn’s health during the cooler months.