What bones form the sides and top of the cranium?

The parietal bones are responsible for forming the sides and top of the cranium. In human anatomy, there are two parietal bones located on the left and right sides of the skull. They are key components of the cranial structure and work in conjunction with other bones, such as the frontal and occipital bones, to protect the brain and support the structure of the head.

The frontal bones compose the forehead and the anterior (front) portion of the skull, while the occipital bones form the back and base of the cranium. The ethmoid bone, on the other hand, is located deeper within the skull and contributes to the formation of the nasal cavity and the orbits of the eyes, rather than significantly affecting the top or sides of the cranium. Thus, the parietal bones specifically encompass the upper lateral aspects of the skull, making them essential for the overall cranial architecture.