Which arteries supply blood to the nasal cavity?

The correct answer is based on the important role that the sphenopalatine artery and the anterior ethmoidal artery play in vascularizing the nasal cavity. The sphenopalatine artery, a branch of the maxillary artery, is particularly significant as it enters the nasal cavity through the sphenopalatine foramen, providing the primary blood supply to the nasal mucosa and contributing to the rich vascular network necessary for functions such as warming and humidifying inhaled air.

In addition, the anterior ethmoidal artery, a branch of the ophthalmic artery, supplies the anterosuperior part of the nasal cavity, including the ethmoidal air cells and the anterior portion of the nasal septum. Together, these arteries ensure that the nasal cavity receives adequate blood flow, which is vital for maintaining its mucosal integrity and function.

The other options describe different arteries that, while they may supply areas close to the nasal cavity or other structures, are not the main suppliers of blood to the nasal cavity itself. For example, the external carotid artery and internal maxillary artery do contribute broadly to neck and head structures, but they do not directly target the nasal cavity. The facial artery and ophthalmic artery are involved in supplying facial structures