Which bones are located on either side of the head, directly above the ears?

The temporal bones are located on either side of the head, directly above the ears. These bones play a crucial role in the structure of the skull, housing important features such as the ear canal, the inner ear, and the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint). The temporal bones also protect the delicate structures associated with hearing and balance.

The parietal bones form the top and sides of the skull, but they do not sit directly above the ears. The sphenoid bones are located more centrally within the skull and contribute to the base and sides of the skull, rather than being positioned next to the ears. The zygomatic bones, commonly known as the cheekbones, are located further forward on the face and do not have a direct association with the ear region. Understanding the locations and roles of these different bones helps clarify why the temporal bones are the correct choice in this context.