Which cranial bone contributes to the formation of the orbit?

The sphenoid bone is crucial in the formation of the orbit because it has specific portions, such as the greater and lesser wings, that contribute to the structure and shape of the orbital cavity. The body of the sphenoid bone also houses important elements like the optic canal, which allows for the passage of the optic nerve.

While the frontal bone does contribute to the formation of the orbit by making up the superior aspect of the orbit and part of the orbital roof, it is solely responsible for just a portion of the entire structure. The opposite is true for the temporal and occipital bones, as they do not contribute to the orbital formation at all. The temporal bone primarily houses structures related to hearing and balance, while the occipital bone forms the back and base of the skull, entirely separate from the eye socket.

Thus, the sphenoid bone is especially notable for its contribution to the orbital structure, along with the frontal bone's role in forming parts of the orbital cavity, making it a compelling choice.