What are the bony structures that form the eye sockets called?

The bony structures that form the eye sockets are known as the orbits. The orbits are comprised of multiple bones that provide a protective enclosure for the eyes and house various structures, such as muscles, fat, nerves, and blood vessels, that support eye function. These sockets serve important roles, including protecting delicate ocular structures and allowing for the proper alignment and movement of the eyes.

The other choices refer to distinct bones in the skull but do not specifically relate to the eye sockets. The maxilla forms the upper jaw and part of the orbits but does not alone define the eye sockets. Nasal bones are located in the nose area and play no role in forming the orbits. The mandible is the lower jawbone and is not involved in the structure of the eye sockets either. Thus, the term orbits specifically and accurately identifies the bony structure of the eye sockets.