Each sentence below contains two blanks. Choose the pair of words that best fits the context of the sentence. Read each sentence carefully and select the most appropriate  Climate researchers have warned that prolonged heatwaves can severely ______ agricultural productivity and ______ the vulnerability of already water-stressed regions.

The sentence describes the negative impact of heatwaves, so both words must express harmful or worsening effects. Correct interpretation: Heatwaves disrupt agriculture and intensify vulnerability. A. improve, diminish – These indicate positive effects, which contradict the context. B. disrupt, intensify – Correct. Heatwaves disturb agricultural productivity and worsen vulnerability. C. stabilise, minimise – Opposite meaning of the sentence. D. encourage, moderate – Suggest positive or reducing effects, which is incorrect. E. balance, regulate – Do not logically describe climate damage.