Here's why:
* Combining vowels are used to connect a root word with a suffix that starts with a consonant. They make the pronunciation smoother.
* The suffix "-al" starts with a consonant ("l").
* Therefore, when adding "-al" to a root word ending in a consonant, a combining vowel (usually "i" or "e") is needed to make the word pronounceable.
Examples:
* nation + al = national
* logic + al = logical
Let me know if you'd like more examples or want to explore other suffixes!