What is the correct relationship between arteries and veins in the circulatory system?

In the circulatory system, arteries and veins have distinct roles regarding the direction in which they carry blood. Arteries are responsible for transporting oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to the tissues and organs of the body. This is vital for delivering the necessary oxygen and nutrients that cells require for metabolism.

On the other hand, veins carry deoxygenated blood back toward the heart after the oxygen has been delivered to the tissues. This blood is then sent to the lungs to be re-oxygenated.

Understanding this relationship is crucial for grasping the overall function of the circulatory system. The distinction between the two types of blood vessels ensures that the body maintains a continuous flow of blood, facilitating the vital exchange of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nutrients. The other choices misrepresent this fundamental aspect of cardiovascular physiology, as they either reverse the roles or incorrectly state the functions of arteries and veins.