In biology and astronomy, the study of life and living systems in outer space and on other worlds is known as which specialized branch of science?

Introduction / Context:
Modern science is very interested in the possibility of life beyond our planet, whether on Mars, icy moons, or distant exoplanets. The branch of science that explores the possibility, origin, evolution, and distribution of life in outer space is often tested in general knowledge and biology exams. Knowing the correct terminology helps students follow current scientific discussions about space missions and the search for extraterrestrial life. This question checks if you can correctly identify that term among similar sounding options.

Given Data / Assumptions:
The question clearly asks about the study of life in outer space and on other worlds. We assume that the learner knows basic meanings of common scientific prefixes like exo, endo, and intra. The options include several invented or less common terms that sound similar but have different or vague meanings. Only one option directly describes life beyond Earth as its main focus.

Concept / Approach:
The key concept is recognizing the prefix exo, which means outside or beyond. Exobiology literally means biology of what is outside the Earth. It focuses on the possibility of life in outer space, the conditions that might support such life, and how life might originate elsewhere. Although the term astrobiology is also used in modern literature, in many exam contexts exobiology is the classic term used for this field. Therefore we look for the option that explicitly defines the study of life beyond Earth rather than life inside organisms or simple cosmic structure.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Read the stem and underline the phrase life in outer space, which is the core clue.Step 2: Recall that exo means outside and bio means life, so exobiology refers to life outside Earth.Step 3: Compare this with endo, which refers to inside, and intra, which also means within or inside something.Step 4: Examine each option and identify which one explicitly states the study of life beyond the Earth.Step 5: Select the option that names exobiology as the study of life beyond the Earth.

Verification / Alternative check:
You can verify the answer by thinking of space agencies and their missions. When scientists discuss possible microbes on Mars or on icy moons, they often refer to exobiology or astrobiology projects. Both terms involve investigating whether life exists or could exist away from Earth. None of the other given terms are commonly mentioned in news or textbooks in this context, which further supports exobiology as the correct choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Endobiology focuses on biological processes inside organisms, not specifically on life in outer space. Neobiology, as presented here, suggests the study of newly discovered species on Earth and does not directly relate to extraterrestrial life. Intrabiology would refer to internal structures or processes within organisms and is not the standard term for space life studies. Cosmology deals with the origin, structure, and large scale evolution of the universe itself, not specifically with living organisms beyond Earth. Therefore these options do not match the required definition.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse cosmology with exobiology because both are related to space. However, cosmology looks at galaxies, dark matter, and cosmic background radiation, not at living systems. Another pitfall is guessing based on sound and choosing a term with the prefix neo or intra without knowing its meaning. To avoid these mistakes, remember that exo indicates outside and that exobiology is the traditional exam word for the study of life beyond our planet. This association makes the concept easier to recall in tests.

Final Answer:
The study of life and living systems in outer space is called Exobiology, the study of life beyond the Earth.