For what purpose is the study of geology primarily aimed?

The study of geology is primarily aimed at examining the Earth's non-living components. This field focuses on understanding the structure, composition, processes, and history of the Earth. Geologists investigate materials such as rocks, minerals, and soil, as well as external processes like erosion, sedimentation, and tectonic activity. By studying these non-living components, geologists can gain insights into the planet's past, understand current geological processes, and explore the resources the Earth provides, such as fossil fuels and minerals.

The other options focus on aspects that fall outside the primary scope of geology. Understanding climate change is often related to atmospheric science and environmental science. Analyzing living organisms pertains to biology and ecology, while studying the behavior of animals aligns with zoology and ethology. Each of these fields focuses on different aspects of science, whereas geology is specifically concentrated on inanimate natural elements that make up the Earth's structure.