The artery supplying the liver with blood is called

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the name of the artery that carries blood to the liver.

Step 2: Explain the concept Arteries are usually named after the organ they supply:

• Hepatic: from the Greek hepar, meaning liver
• Renal: kidney
• Mesenteric: the mesentery, which supports the intestines
• Subclavian: beneath the clavicle (collarbone), supplying the arm and shoulder region

The liver also receives blood through the hepatic portal vein. This is a vein, not an artery. It brings nutrient-rich, deoxygenated blood from the intestines. The hepatic artery brings oxygenated blood from the aorta (through the coeliac trunk).

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Hepatic: supplies the liver with oxygenated blood. Correct.
• B. Mesenteric: supplies the intestines.
• C. Renal: supplies the kidneys.
• D. Subclavian: supplies the arms and shoulders.

Step 4: Answer The artery supplying the liver is the hepatic artery, which is option A.

Exam tip: Remember the word roots: hepat- means liver (as in hepatitis, which is inflammation of the liver), and ren- means kidney. Also remember the difference between the hepatic artery, which brings oxygenated blood, and the hepatic portal vein, which brings food-rich blood from the gut. JAMB often tests that distinction.