What is the term for the side (lateral) surface of the head?

The term for the side (lateral) surface of the head is referred to as the temporal region. This area is located on the sides of the skull and corresponds to the temporal bone, which houses the structures of the ear and is involved in various functions, including hearing and balance. Understanding human anatomy is key in the context of forensic science; knowledge of landmarks like the temporal region can aid in identifying injuries, determining cause of death, or estimating the position of the body during an investigation.

Other options describe different anatomical areas. The occipital region is located at the back of the head, the parietal region is found on the upper sides of the skull, and the orbital region pertains to the eye sockets. Each of these areas has its own distinct anatomical and forensic significance, but when specifically identifying the lateral aspect of the head, the temporal region is the correct choice.