What is the scientific study of the origins and development of the universe?

The scientific study of the origins and development of the universe is known as cosmology. This branch of science focuses on understanding the large-scale properties of the universe as a whole, including its beginnings, evolution, structure, and eventual fate. Cosmologists investigate fundamental questions about the universe, such as the Big Bang, cosmic inflation, dark matter, and dark energy, which are essential for comprehending how the universe has changed over time.

While astronomy involves the observation and study of celestial bodies and phenomena, it does not specifically concentrate on the universe's origins. Astrophysics shares some overlap with cosmology by applying the principles of physics to understand astronomical phenomena, but it typically focuses more on the physical properties of stars, planets, and galaxies rather than the universe's overall evolution. Geology, on the other hand, is concerned with the Earth's structure, composition, and processes, and does not relate to the universe as a whole. Therefore, cosmology is the most accurate term for the study of the universe's origins and development.