Which of the following disciplines studies the origin and evolution of planet Earth over the past 4.6 billion years? astronomy physical geology meteorology historical geology

The correct answer is D. historical geology.<br /><br />Historical geology is the branch of geology that studies the origin and evolution of the Earth over its 4.6 billion-year history. It focuses on understanding the sequence of events that have shaped the Earth's surface, including the formation of mountains, the development of oceans, and the evolution of life.<br /><br />Astronomy, on the other hand, is the study of celestial objects and phenomena beyond Earth's atmosphere, such as stars, planets, and galaxies. Physical geology is the study of the physical properties and processes of the Earth, such as the structure of the Earth's crust, the movement of tectonic plates, and the formation of rocks. Meteorology is the study of the Earth's atmosphere and weather patterns.<br /><br />Therefore, the discipline that specifically studies the origin and evolution of planet Earth over the past 4.6 billion years is historical geology.