Final answer:
The temporal bones are located on the side of the head above the ears, forming the lower lateral side of the skull and encompassing several distinct areas such as the mastoid process.
Step-by-step explanation:
The temporal bones are located on the side of the head above the ears. These bones form the lower lateral side of the skull and have various regions including the squamous portion, zygomatic process, mastoid process, and petrous ridge. The temporal bone is notable, not just for its role in the structure of the skull but also for being the area where hair typically first turns gray, indicating the passage of time, hence its name (temporal = "time"). The mastoid process, a prominent feature of the temporal bone, can easily be felt just behind the earlobe and serves as a muscle attachment site.