Deforestation is the term that describes the cutting down or clearing of trees from a wooded area.
Tree roots absorb water from the ground and return water vapor back to the atmosphere. If trees are removed and can no longer contribute to the water cycle and thus, transform into a much drier climate. This dry environment can spread due to a decrease in atmospheric water vapor and results in a decline in precipitation levels in the area and leads to the desertification
Thus, the correct answer is option C.