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Nature's mood rings: How chameleons really change color

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3,827 Questions Answered

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Scientists learn new things everyday. Things that scientists have believed for years, sometimes even decades can be discovered false with investigation. Chameleons and their "camouflage" skin is one of those discoveries. Deep Look explores the science behind chameleon skin.

Watch Think 4 Multiple Choice &
2 Open Answer Questions Dig Deeper Learn More Discuss 1 Guided Discussion &
0 Open Discussions …And Finally

In the past, scientists believed that chameleons changed their skin to match their surroundings. What did they learn that taught them differently.

a

Chameleon's baseline color is white which reflects their surroundings naturally.

b

Chameleon's baseline color is black which absorbs their surrounding color naturally.

c

Chameleon's baseline color is camouflage. When calm, their natural color is green.

d

Chameleon's baseline color is red. When angered, their color blends to match surroundings.

About TED-Ed Best of Web

TED-Ed Best of Web are exceptional, user-created lessons that are carefully selected by volunteer teachers and TED-Ed staff.

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Video created by Deep Look
Lesson Plan created by Tobye Ertelt

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