Which of the following suffixes refers to the study of a subject?

The suffix that refers to the study of a subject is -logy. This suffix is derived from the Greek word "logos," meaning "word," "discourse," or "study." When attached to a root word, it indicates a field of study or knowledge related to that particular subject. For example, in terms like "biology" (the study of life) or "psychology" (the study of the mind), -logy effectively conveys that the term is focused on examining and understanding specific areas of knowledge.

In contrast, the other suffixes have different meanings. The suffix -itis denotes inflammation or disease (often used in medical terms), -lysis indicates a process of breaking down or dissolving something, and -ose is used to form names of sugars or carbohydrates. Therefore, the correct identification of -logy as relating to the study of a subject is essential for understanding various academic disciplines and terminology.