The aorta is the largest artery in the human body, responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to the rest of the body. It originates from the left ventricle of the heart and arches upward before descending through the chest and abdomen. The aorta branches into smaller arteries that supply blood to various organs and tissues.
The aorta has several sections, including the ascending aorta, aortic arch, and descending aorta. Its structure is designed to withstand high pressure from the heart's pumping action. Any issues with the aorta, such as an aneurysm or dissection, can lead to serious health complications.