What is the primary role of the pulmonary arteries?

The primary role of the pulmonary arteries is to transport deoxygenated blood from the right side of the heart to the lungs. This process is crucial for gas exchange, where carbon dioxide is released from the blood and oxygen is absorbed into the bloodstream during respiration. The pulmonary arteries carry the blood to the lungs, where it becomes oxygenated before being returned to the heart via the pulmonary veins. This pathway is essential for facilitating the body's need for oxygen and removing carbon dioxide, which is a waste product of metabolism. Understanding this function highlights the importance of pulmonary circulation in maintaining overall cardiovascular health and efficient gas exchange.