Which two bones form the sides and top of the cranium?

The parietal bones are indeed the correct answer, as they are responsible for forming the sides and top of the cranium. Each of the two parietal bones articulates with other cranial bones and helps enclose and protect the brain by forming the superior and lateral aspects of the skull. Their key positioning plays a significant role in the overall structure and integrity of the cranial cavity.

In contrast to the parietal bones, the other options refer to different bones that do not fulfill the same function. For example, the frontal bone is located at the forehead and primarily contributes to the anterior skull, while the occipital bone makes up the posterior aspect. The temporal bones are situated at the sides and base of the skull but do not contribute to the top. Lastly, while the mandible and maxilla are important facial bones, they are located in the lower portion of the skull and do not participate in forming the cranium at all. Understanding the anatomy of the skull is essential for recognizing how protective structures encase the brain and the functions they serve in the context of esthetics and beyond.