Which of the following best explains why deforestation increases the risk of floods in an area?
a. tree leaves catch and retain rain water.
b. trees block the free flow of water.
c. deforestation increases precipitation.
d. tree roots improve soil water retention.

d. tree roots improve soil water retention is the correct answer.

Explanation:

Deforestation increases the risk of the flood because deforestation means clearance of forests or trees from the land.

Leaves lessen the effect of rains on the soil that reduce soil erosion.

Deforestation performs several roles in the flooding because trees stop sand runoff, retain and utilize more rain.

Roots of the trees absorb water of the soil and efficient to collect more rain.

Thus, decreasing the risks of the flood and if trees or forest are cleared it increases the risk of floods in an area