What is an "artery"?

An artery is a blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood away from the heart and distributes it to various parts of the body. Arteries have thick, muscular walls that enable them to withstand the pressure generated by the pumping action of the heart. They play a crucial role in maintaining the circulation of oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs throughout the body. Arteries branch into smaller vessels called arterioles, which further divide into capillaries, allowing for the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the blood and surrounding tissues. Arteries are vital components of the circulatory system and are essential for overall health and proper organ function.