How do trees contribute to the water cycle?

Trees play a crucial role in the water cycle through the process of transpiration. During transpiration, trees absorb water from the soil through their roots and transport it through their stems to the leaves. In the leaves, some of this water evaporates into the atmosphere as moisture. This process not only helps to maintain the tree's internal water balance but also contributes to the overall water cycle by adding water vapor to the air, which can lead to cloud formation and precipitation.

While it is true that trees can store water in their trunks and absorb rainwater, these functions are not as directly significant in the context of contributing to the water cycle as transpiration. Similarly, while trees can help reduce evaporation in the vicinity of their roots and water sources, their primary contribution to the water cycle is through the release of moisture back into the atmosphere. This understanding highlights the importance of trees in maintaining healthy ecosystems and regulating local climates.