Which type of geology is concerned with the timing of events that shaped the Earth?

Historical geology is the branch that focuses on understanding the timing and sequence of events that have shaped the Earth over geological time. It involves studying rock layers, fossils, and various geological formations to construct a timeline of Earth's history. This field helps geologists to interpret the processes that have occurred, such as plate tectonics, volcanic activity, and the evolution of life.

By examining the stratification of rocks and the fossil record, historical geology allows scientists to piece together the chronological events that have contributed to the Earth's current state. This knowledge is essential for understanding not only the history of the planet but also for predicting future geological events and changes.

In contrast, dynamic geology looks more at the processes and forces that cause changes in the Earth's structure. Physical geology deals with the materials that make up the Earth and the processes involved in shaping them, while environmental geology is concerned with the interactions between humans and the geological environment. These fields do not primarily focus on the timing and historical aspects of geological events, which is why historical geology is the correct choice for this question.