Which of the following best defines geology?

Geology is best defined as the study of the solid Earth, which encompasses a variety of processes and materials that make up our planet's structure, composition, and history. This field examines everything from the formation and transformation of rocks to the mechanisms behind earthquakes and volcanic activity. By focusing on the solid Earth, geologists seek to understand not only the current processes impacting the planet but also how Earth's geology has evolved over millions of years.

The other options indicate areas of study that are distinct from geology. The study of life forms relates to biology, which investigates living organisms and their interactions. The examination of the oceans falls under oceanography, a branch of Earth science specifically focused on the oceanic environment and marine systems. The study of the atmosphere pertains to meteorology and climatology, which analyze weather patterns and climate systems. Each of these disciplines contributes to a broader understanding of Earth and its systems but focuses on different aspects, while geology specifically targets the solid materials that form the planet's crust and underlying layers.