Which artery supplies oxygenated blood to the brain?

The internal carotid artery is crucial for supplying oxygenated blood directly to the brain. It branches off from the common carotid artery and ascends into the cranial cavity, where it provides blood to significant areas of the brain, particularly the anterior and middle portions. This includes vital structures such as the cerebral hemispheres, which are responsible for higher functions like reasoning, sensation, and movement.

While the common carotid artery is also important as it bifurcates into the internal and external carotid arteries, it is the internal carotid artery specifically that delivers oxygenated blood to the brain. The external carotid artery supplies blood to the face and neck, but does not contribute to the vascularization of the brain. The aorta is the major artery supplying the entire body but does not directly supply the brain itself; instead, it branches into other arteries, including the carotid arteries. Therefore, the internal carotid artery's direct role in bringing blood to brain tissues makes it the correct choice.