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The vastus lateralis muscle is located at the front of the thigh. It is one of the four muscles that make up the quadriceps group, which is responsible for knee extension. The vastus lateralis specifically is situated on the lateral (outer) aspect of the thigh, and it plays a crucial role in activities that require strength and movement of the knee joint, such as walking, running, and jumping.

This muscle works in concert with the other quadriceps muscles—the vastus medialis, vastus intermedius, and rectus femoris—to provide stabilization and power during leg movements. Understanding the location and function of the vastus lateralis is essential for recognizing its importance in lower limb mechanics and rehabilitation contexts.

The other options represent muscles or locations that do not pertain to the vastus lateralis: the back of the thigh is where the hamstring group is located, the side of the knee pertains to ligaments and muscles that stabilize the knee, and the upper arm is associated with different muscle groups, such as the biceps and triceps.