What does the temporal bone form?

The temporal bone plays a crucial role in the skeletal structure of the head, particularly in forming part of the lateral section of the skull. This bone contributes to the sides and base of the skull, housing structures critical for hearing and balance, such as the inner ear. Since the temporal bone is located at the side of the skull, it forms the lateral walls and the floor of the cranial cavity, integrating with other cranial bones.

The importance of the temporal bone extends into its various features that protect auditory and vestibular structures, indicating its anatomical and functional significance as part of the lateral skull base. This multifaceted involvement in both structure and function highlights the correctness of the answer regarding the temporal bone's formation role in the lateral section of the skull.