Which two components of the Green Revolution dramatically increased crop yields?

• A. High-yield seed varieties and expanded use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
• B. Urbanization and diversification into nonfarm sectors.
• C. Reduced irrigation and use of natural fertilizers.
• D. Traditional seed varieties and minimal inputs.

Answer: (A)

The big increase in yields came from pairing advanced genetics with intensified inputs. High-yield seed varieties are bred to produce much more grain when they receive ample nutrients and water, and they often mature quicker, so farmers can harvest more crops per area. When these seeds are combined with the expanded use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, plants get the essential nutrients they need to grow bigger and healthier, and pests or diseases are kept under control, reducing losses. This combination—better seed genetics plus heavy input use—produced the dramatic rise in crop yields associated with the Green Revolution, especially in developing regions. The other options describe changes in demand or input levels that don’t directly produce the same leap in yields.