Gas exchange in plants and animals

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A student reads an article describing how the right side of the heart pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs through the pulmonary artery. While reviewing this, the student wonders why the pulmonary artery is considered an exception among arteries. Which statement best explains this exception?

• A Because it carries oxygen-rich blood away from the lungs to the heart, unlike all other arteries
• B Because it carries deoxygenated blood away from the heart to the lungs, while most arteries carry oxygenated blood
• C Because it has valves that allow blood to flow backward, unlike other arteries
• D Because it directly stores carbon dioxide before sending it to the lungs

*The correct answer is not shown in the preview.