Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.

The pleasant ______ of the rain as it fell on the dust made me feel nostalgic.

aroma

The most appropriate option to fill in the blank is aroma.

The sentence is about the pleasant smell of the rain as it fell on the dust. This smell is often described as earthy, musky, or fresh. The word "aroma" is the most appropriate word to use because it describes a pleasant smell. The other options are not as appropriate.

• Perfume is a strong, artificial smell that is often used to make oneself smell nice. This does not make sense in the context of the sentence because the smell of the rain is natural and not artificial.
• Balm is a soothing ointment that is used to heal wounds or sores. This does not make sense in the context of the sentence because the smell of the rain is not soothing, it is pleasant.
• Incense is a type of smoke that is used for religious or ceremonial purposes. This does not make sense in the context of the sentence because the smell of the rain is not associated with religion or ceremony.