Final answer:
Hammurabi improved the Babylonian Empire's economy through irrigation projects and trade promotion. Floodplains in the Fertile Crescent encouraged settlement due to access to water and fertile land.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hammurabi improved the economy of the Babylonian Empire by implementing a variety of measures. One of the key ways he improved the economy was through the construction of irrigation projects. These projects allowed for greater agricultural productivity by providing a reliable water supply for crops. Additionally, Hammurabi promoted trade and commerce, which helped to stimulate economic growth and prosperity. For example, he built new temples at Nippur and published his legal edicts throughout his empire, which increased connectivity and facilitated trade between different regions.
The best explanation for why floodplains encouraged settlement in the Fertile Crescent. Floodplains provided access to fresh water and fertile land, making them ideal for agriculture. The annual flooding of rivers like the Tigris and Euphrates would deposit nutrient-rich silt onto the floodplains, making the soil fertile and suitable for growing crops. With reliable water sources and fertile land, people were able to establish settlements and engage in agricultural activities, which formed the foundation for thriving civilizations in the Fertile Crescent.