Final answer:
The study of past geologic events is crucial for predicting future geologic events, discovering future oil deposits, understanding climatic cycles, and noting changes in the fossil record; thus, 'e. All the above' is the correct choice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The study of past geologic events is crucial for various reasons, including a. Predicting future geologic events, which is essential for preparing for natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Geologists use the information from past events to understand the mechanics and frequency of these occurrences, potentially saving lives and property.
Another key application is the b. Discovery of future oil deposits. By understanding the Earth's strata and where fossil fuels have been found historically, geologists can predict where new reserves might be located, greatly aiding in resource management and energy production.
In understanding c. Climatic cycles, geologists examine proxies like fossils, ice cores, tree rings, and sediment cores that provide insights into ancient climates, enhancing our understanding of climatic fluctuations over time and its potential future trends.
Lastly, various techniques, such as relative dating, enable geologists to notice d. Changes to the fossil record, which can reveal the rate of speciation, extinction events, and environmental changes throughout Earth's history.
Therefore, the correct answer is e. All the above, since the study of past geologic events applies to all of these areas.