What is the purpose of the 'html' element in HTML5?

The 'html' element serves a fundamental purpose in an HTML document by acting as the root element. This means that it encompasses all other HTML elements within it, making it the first element in the structure of the document. By defining the 'html' element, the browser recognizes where the document begins and ends, allowing it to correctly interpret and render the content inside.

In addition to containing other elements such as the head and body, the 'html' element also specifies the language of the document through the 'lang' attribute, which enhances accessibility and usability, especially for assistive technologies. Overall, its role is crucial as it establishes the foundation for the entire document's structure and hierarchy.