In astronomy, the scientific study of the entire universe, including its origin, structure and evolution, is called what?

Introduction / Context:
Human beings have always been curious about the universe as a whole. Modern science has developed a specific branch that studies the origin, structure, large scale properties and ultimate fate of the universe. This question checks if you know the correct term for that scientific field.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are asked for the name of the scientific study of the universe.
• Options include similar sounding words such as cosmology and cosmetology.
• We assume standard textbook definitions of these disciplines.

Concept / Approach:
Cosmology is the branch of astronomy and physics that deals with the universe as a whole. It studies the Big Bang, cosmic background radiation, dark matter, dark energy and the large scale structure of galaxies. Cosmetology, in contrast, is related to beauty treatment and cosmetics. Petrology deals with rocks. Astrology is a belief system linking positions of celestial bodies with human affairs, and is not considered a modern scientific discipline. Universology is not a standard scientific term in basic curricula. Therefore, cosmology is the correct answer.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on the key phrase study of the universe. Step 2: Recall that the prefix cosmo refers to universe or world, and logy means study. Step 3: Match cosmology with this meaning, and distinguish it from cosmetology, which relates to beauty care. Step 4: Confirm that cosmology is mentioned in physics and astronomy chapters that discuss the Big Bang and expansion of the universe.

Verification / Alternative check:
Think of where you have seen the word before. Cosmology appears in discussions of cosmic microwave background radiation and Hubble expansion. None of the other options fit that context. This quick memory check supports cosmology as the correct term.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, universology, is not widely used as a formal scientific term in basic astronomy. Option B, cosmetology, is about cosmetics and beauty treatment, completely unrelated to space science. Option C, petrology, is the study of rocks and their origin, texture and composition. Option E, astrology, deals with horoscopes and is not accepted as a modern scientific study of the universe.

Common Pitfalls:
Many learners confuse cosmology and cosmetology because the words sound similar. A simple trick is to remember that cosmos means the universe. So any term starting with cosmo in a science context is likely linked to space. Cosmetology instead starts from cosmetic and beauty. Clear association of the root words helps avoid this confusion.

Final Answer:
The scientific study of the universe as a whole is called Cosmology.