How does blood leave the heart and where does it go?

• A. Pulmonary artery
• B. Aorta
• C. Superior vena cava
• D. Pulmonary vein

Answer: (B)

Blood leaves the heart through the aorta, the main arterial outflow from the left ventricle. The left ventricle ejects oxygen-rich blood into the aortic valve, and blood moves into the ascending aorta, then through the aortic arch and descending aorta to supply the body via systemic arteries. This path is what delivers blood to all tissues so they receive oxygen and nutrients. In contrast, the pulmonary artery sends blood from the heart to the lungs for gas exchange, and the pulmonary veins return oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart.