Which bones comprise the zygomatic arch?

The zygomatic arch, commonly referred to as the cheekbone, is primarily formed by two bones: the zygomatic bone and the temporal bone. The zygomatic bone itself is a facial bone that forms the prominence of the cheek, while the temporal bone is located on the side of the skull and contains the structure of the cranial base.

The zygomatic arch serves not only as a structural component of the face but also as an attachment point for muscles involved in mastication (chewing). Since this arch is composed of both the zygomatic bone and the part of the temporal bone that connects with it, option A accurately identifies the correct bones that comprise the zygomatic arch.

Other listed combinations of bones does not include both elements essential to forming the zygomatic arch, and thus are not correct. For instance, the maxilla and mandible are associated with the lower part of the face, while the frontal and occipital bones pertain to the cranial structure. The ethmoid and sphenoid bones are located deeper within the skull and contribute to the structure of the nasal cavity and the base of the skull, respectively. These associations clarify why the correct answer is indeed A, as it features the actual bones