What is lateral surface area?

Lateral surface area specifically refers to the area of the sides of a geometric solid, excluding the top and bottom bases. In three-dimensional shapes, such as prisms and cylinders, the lateral surface area includes only the vertical or side surfaces. For example, in the case of a cylinder, this would be the area around the curved side, while in a rectangular prism, it encompasses the areas of all four side rectangles.

Recognizing this, it's clear that the correct answer emphasizes the sides of the shape rather than the total surface area, which would include the areas of the bases. Additionally, the volume of the solid pertains to the space it occupies and does not relate to surface area at all. Therefore, focusing solely on side surfaces, as mentioned in the correct answer, appropriately defines lateral surface area.