What is the primary function of arteries?

The primary function of arteries is to carry blood away from the heart. This is crucial for the circulatory system, as it ensures that oxygen-rich blood is delivered to tissues and organs throughout the body, facilitating the supply of oxygen and nutrients necessary for cellular function. Arteries have thick, muscular walls that can withstand the high pressure from the blood pumped by the heart, allowing them to efficiently transport blood over varying distances.

While other options mention important aspects of the circulatory system, they do not accurately define the primary role of arteries. The collection of blood from organs pertains more to veins, which bring deoxygenated blood back to the heart. Pumping blood to the heart would involve the function of the veins as well. The statement regarding the transportation of only oxygenated blood is misleading too, since while many arteries do carry oxygenated blood, there are exceptions, such as the pulmonary arteries, which transport deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. Therefore, option C most accurately describes the primary function of arteries.