Which parts of the circulatory system deliver oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body?

• A. Aorta and systemic arteries
• B. Right atrium and right ventricle
• C. Superior and inferior vena cava
• D. Pulmonary arteries

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the function of the circulatory system: The circulatory system is responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, and waste products throughout the body. It consists of two main circuits: the pulmonary circuit (which oxygenates blood) and the systemic circuit (which delivers oxygen-rich blood to the body).
2. Identify the role of the systemic circuit: The systemic circuit carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This is achieved through large blood vessels such as the aorta and systemic arteries.
3. Clarify the role of the pulmonary circuit: The pulmonary circuit transports oxygen-poor blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. Pulmonary arteries are part of this circuit and do not deliver oxygen-rich blood to the body.
4. Analyze the roles of the heart chambers and vena cava: The right atrium and right ventricle handle oxygen-poor blood, pumping it to the lungs via the pulmonary arteries. The superior and inferior vena cava return oxygen-poor blood to the heart, so they are not involved in delivering oxygen-rich blood.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is the aorta and systemic arteries, as they are the parts of the circulatory system responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body.