Which artery is primarily responsible for supplying the kidneys with blood?

The renal artery is the primary vessel responsible for supplying blood to the kidneys. Each kidney is supplied by its own renal artery, which branches off from the abdominal aorta. The renal artery carries oxygen-rich blood that is essential for the filtration and regulation of various bodily functions, including fluid balance and electrolyte levels.

The importance of the renal artery lies in its direct connection to the vascular system of the kidneys, ensuring that they receive an adequate blood supply for effective filtration and waste removal. This artery specifically delivers blood to the renal parenchyma, where nephron units function in urine production and other essential processes.

In contrast, the ureteral artery typically supplies blood to the ureters, which transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder, while the femoral artery primarily supplies blood to the lower extremities. The common iliac artery, a continuation of the abdominal aorta, branches into the internal and external iliac arteries, supplying the pelvis and lower limbs instead of directly serving the kidneys. Thus, the renal artery's unique role in kidney perfusion distinguishes it from the other options provided.