What is the primary focus of Earth science?

The primary focus of Earth science is investigating Earth's processes and surroundings. This field encompasses a wide range of disciplines that examine the physical, chemical, and biological processes affecting the Earth, including geology, meteorology, oceanography, and environmental science. Earth scientists seek to understand the planet’s structure, the dynamics of its systems, and the interactions between various components, such as the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere.

While understanding weather patterns is an important aspect of Earth science, it falls under the broader umbrella of meteorology, which is just one component of the overall field. Studying celestial navigation pertains more to astronomy and navigation techniques, rather than the Earth's processes themselves. Exploring human-environment interactions is critical for environmental science, but it typically focuses on how humans affect their surroundings rather than the fundamental processes of the Earth. Thus, the most accurate statement regarding the primary focus of Earth science is the investigation of the Earth’s processes and surroundings.