Final answer:
The term describing the study and science of the ear and its diseases is otology, which is distinct from other medical specialties like ophthalmology, dermatology, and cardiology.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that describes the study and science of the ear and its diseases is otology. It is a branch of medicine that deals with the anatomy, function, and pathology of the ear. Physicians who specialize in this field are known as otologists. They diagnose and treat ear-related disorders such as hearing loss, ear infections, balance disorders, and tinnitus.
The options provided in the question include a) Ophthalmology, which is the study of the eye and its diseases, c) Dermatology, the branch of medicine dealing with the skin, and d) Cardiology, which is the study of the heart and its functions. Cardiologists are the physicians who handle heart conditions. It is important to note that cardiology is related to the term "heart" derived from the Latin "kardia," and is focused solely on heart-related health issues.