Which artery supplies 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 common carotid arteries, which branch from the aortic arch and the brachiocephalic trunk, respectively. As these arteries ascend the neck, they bifurcate into the internal and external carotid arteries. The internal carotid arteries are particularly vital as they provide blood directly to the brain, while the external carotid arteries supply blood to the face and neck regions.

Understanding the role of the carotid artery is essential in emergency medical situations, particularly when assessing a patient for stroke or head injury, where ensuring adequate cerebral perfusion is critical. The other arteries listed in the choices serve different regions of the body. The subclavian artery supplies blood to the arms and upper body, the aorta is the body's main artery distributing oxygenated blood to the entire body, and the femoral artery supplies blood to the lower limbs. This distinction reinforces the specificity of the carotid artery's function in vascular anatomy and physiology.