Which bone forms the lower jaw?

The bone that forms the lower jaw is the mandible. This U-shaped bone is significant in both the structure and function of the face. It serves as the only movable bone of the skull, allowing for essential actions such as chewing and speaking. The mandible supports the lower teeth and provides attachment points for muscles involved in mastication.

In terms of anatomy, the mandible articulates with the temporal bone at the temporomandibular joint, which facilitates the jaw's movement. The other bones listed do not serve the function of forming the lower jaw. For instance, the maxilla forms the upper jaw, the temporal bone is part of the side of the skull, and the palatine bone contributes to the structure of the palate. Understanding the role and placement of the mandible helps in comprehending the functional anatomy of the jaw and its significance in dental health and oral functions.