Why Does Removal of Vegetation Cause More Surface Runoff and Thus

Why does removal of vegetation cause more surface runoff and thus more erosion?

A) It permits more water to directly strike the ground and run off.
B) All of the plants covering the surface slow the runoff.
C) Roots of the plants hold the soil together and prevent erosion.
D) It reduces the amount of vegetation available for forest fires.
E) It results in increased grazing and compaction of the soil.