Which bone forms part of the lateral walls of the nasal cavity?

The bone that forms part of the lateral walls of the nasal cavity is the ethmoid bone. This bone has a complex structure and is located in the skull, contributing not only to the nasal cavity but also to the orbit and the floor of the cranium. The ethmoid bone contains the ethmoidal labyrinth, which consists of various thin-walled cells that help in the process of olfaction (smell) and play a role in the respiratory system by conditioning inspired air.

The lateral aspects of the nasal cavity are crucial for its function, allowing airflow and supporting the complex nasal turbinates that facilitate the warming and moistening of inhaled air. The ethmoid's rich structure enables it to support the mucosal lining that covers the nasal cavity.

In contrast, other bones like the vomer, while contributing to nasal structures, do not form part of the lateral walls; rather, the vomer contributes to the septum. The temporal and parietal bones are also not involved with the nasal cavity's lateral walls, as the temporal is primarily associated with the side of the skull and the parietal pertains to the roof of the cranial cavity. Understanding the anatomy of these bones is essential for comprehending the overall structure and function