Which profession involves the study and prediction of weather conditions?

The profession that involves the study and prediction of weather conditions is meteorology, which is the focus of a meteorologist. Meteorologists analyze atmospheric data, including temperature, humidity, wind patterns, and air pressure, to understand the current state of the atmosphere and to forecast future weather. They use a variety of tools, such as satellite imagery, radar technology, and computer models, to create accurate weather predictions. This field is essential for numerous applications, including agriculture, transportation, and disaster preparedness, making meteorologists vital for informing the public about weather-related events.

The other professions listed focus on different areas of science: geologists study the Earth's structure and processes, microbiologists focus on microorganisms, and botanists specialize in plant biology. These fields do not involve the prediction or analysis of weather conditions, which is why they are not the correct choice for this question.