Final answer:
The zygomatic process of the temporal bone forms the posterior part of the zygomatic arch, which does not extend past the ears; it extends to just above the ear canal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The zygomatic arch is a bony structure on the lateral side of the skull that does not extend past the ears. It is formed by two processes: the temporal process of the zygomatic bone (cheekbone), which is the anterior component, and the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, which is the longer, posterior portion extending forward from the temporal bone. The two processes join to create the zygomatic arch, spanning from the area of the cheek to just above the ear canal, but not beyond it.
The zygomatic process of the temporal bone forms the posterior portion of the zygomatic arch and is one of the landmarks of the temporal bone. It lays anteriorly to the ear but does not surpass the ears. A key muscle that elevates the mandible during biting and chewing originates from this zygomatic arch.