In geography and earth science, what is the scientific term for the study of mountains and mountainous regions?

Introduction / Context:

This question addresses terminology in physical geography and geology. Different branches of science focus on specific features of the Earth, such as oceans, rocks or living organisms. There is a specialised term for the study of mountains and mountainous regions. Understanding such terms helps in reading scientific literature and answering subject specific questions in competitive exams.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Mountains are large landforms that rise prominently above surrounding terrain.
• Scientists study their formation, structure, evolution and associated processes.
• The options include several scientific fields with similar sounding names.
• We assume standard Greek and Latin derived terminology used in geography and geology.

Concept / Approach:

The term orology (sometimes spelled orology in some texts) comes from the Greek word for mountain, oros. It refers to the study of mountains, including their origin, structure and distribution. Other related terms in the options refer to very different subjects, such as cancer, rocks or birds. The approach is to match the correct root word for mountain with the term that describes the scientific study of mountains.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Geography and geology glossaries typically define orology as the scientific study of the formation and characteristics of mountains. It includes research on mountain building processes such as tectonic uplift, folding, faulting and volcanic activity. Some sources use related terms like orogenesis for mountain formation, which reinforces the root oro for mountain. In contrast, the other listed disciplines have well established meanings that do not involve mountains. This confirms orology as the correct term.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Oncology is a medical specialty concerned with diagnosis and treatment of cancer and is unrelated to physical geography. Lithology concentrates on the description and classification of rocks, which can appear in many environments, not just mountains. Ornithology focuses on bird biology and behaviour. Oceanography deals with oceans, currents, waves and marine ecosystems. None of these describe the specific study of mountain landforms and regions.

Common Pitfalls:

Students may confuse lithology and orology because mountains often contain exposed rocks, but the core emphasis of lithology is rock types, whereas orology emphasises mountain systems and their development. Others might misread ornithology as orology due to similar spelling. Carefully noting the root words and their meanings is important in questions that test scientific terminology.

Final Answer:

The scientific term for the study of mountains and mountainous regions is Orology.