Final answer:
The aortic arch is an integral part of the heart's arterial system that includes three branches supplying blood to various parts of the body: the brachiocephalic artery, the left common carotid artery, and the left subclavian artery. These vessels are classified as elastic arteries and are essential in maintaining systemic circulation, including to the brain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The aortic arch is a crucial component of the cardiovascular system, which functions to pump oxygenated blood from the left ventricle of the heart throughout the body. The aorta is the largest artery in the body and consists of several parts: the ascending aorta, the aortic arch, and the descending aorta, which further divides into the thoracic and abdominal aorta. The aortic semilunar valve located at the base of the aorta prevents blood from flowing back into the heart during relaxation.
There are three major branches emanating from the aortic arch: the brachiocephalic artery, which further branches into the right subclavian artery and the right common carotid artery; the left common carotid artery; and the left subclavian artery. These vessels are classified as elastic arteries due to their close proximity to the heart and their ability to stretch and accommodate the pressure of the blood being pumped by the heart.
The aortic arch branches play a vital role in brain circulation by supplying oxygen-rich blood to the head, neck, upper limbs, and thoracic wall. After circulating through the body, deoxygenated blood returns to the heart via the venae cavae, entering the right atrium and continuing the circulatory process.