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What is the primary function of the carotid artery?

  1. To supply blood to the lungs

  2. To provide blood to the head, neck, and face

  3. To deliver blood to the lower body

  4. To connect the brain and spinal cord

The correct answer is: To provide blood to the head, neck, and face

The primary function of the carotid artery is to provide blood to the head, neck, and face. This artery, which branches off from the aorta, divides into the internal and external carotid arteries. The internal carotid artery supplies blood to the brain, while the external carotid artery supplies blood to the face, scalp, and neck regions. This vascular network is crucial for delivering oxygen-rich blood, which is essential for the proper functioning of the tissues and organs in these areas. While the other options mention functions that pertain to different blood vessels, they do not accurately describe the role of the carotid artery specifically. For example, the supply of blood to the lungs is a function of the pulmonary arteries, and blood to the lower body primarily comes from the aorta and its branches leading down to the legs. The connection between the brain and the spinal cord involves the vertebral arteries and other structures rather than the carotid arteries. Thus, option B correctly identifies the specific role of the carotid artery in the circulatory system.