Which artery is primarily responsible for supplying blood to the head and brain?

The carotid artery is the primary vessel responsible for supplying blood to the head and brain. There are two main carotid arteries, the left and right, which branch off the aorta and travel upward on either side of the neck. These arteries split into the internal and external carotid arteries, with the internal carotid artery providing the majority of the blood supply to the brain, and the external carotid artery serving the face and neck.

Given its crucial role, any injury or blockage in the carotid arteries can have significant consequences, as it can lead to decreased oxygenation and nutrient delivery to the brain, which is vital for cognitive function and overall health. Understanding the role of the carotid arteries is essential for assessing and managing conditions related to cerebral blood flow.

In contrast, other arteries listed do not supply the head and brain. The jugular artery, primarily a vein (not an artery), is responsible for draining blood from the head and neck back to the heart. The femoral artery supplies blood to the lower limbs, and the pulmonary artery carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for reoxygenation. Thus, these options do not fulfill the requirement of blood supply to the head and brain, reinforcing the significance of the carot