UPSC Prelims 2006 Q14: Science & Technology – Biology
What is the name of the vessel that delivers the nutrient - rich blood from the stomach and
small intestine to the liver?
- (a) Left hepatic artery
- (b) Hepatic vein
- (c) Right hepatic artery
- (d) Hepatic portal vein
Answer: (d) Hepatic portal vein
Explanation
Blood vessels linked with the liver
| Vessel | Function |
|---|---|
| Left hepatic artery | Supplies oxygenated blood to the liver |
| Hepatic vein | Carries blood away from the liver to the inferior vena cava |
| Right hepatic artery | Supplies oxygenated blood to the liver |
| Hepatic portal vein | Brings nutrient-rich blood from the stomach and small intestine to the liver |
The hepatic portal vein lets the liver process absorbed nutrients before they enter general circulation.
Answer: (d) Hepatic portal vein.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The left hepatic artery carries oxygenated blood to the liver, not nutrients from the gut.
- (b) Incorrect. The hepatic vein drains blood out of the liver.
- (c) Incorrect. The right hepatic artery supplies oxygenated blood, not intestinal nutrients.
- (d) CORRECT. The hepatic portal vein carries nutrient-rich blood from the stomach and small intestine to the liver.
Key point
The hepatic portal vein delivers nutrient-rich blood from the stomach and small intestine to the liver.
Remember
Hepatic portal vein: gut to liver.
Common mistakes
- Choosing the hepatic vein, which actually leaves the liver.
- Thinking a hepatic artery carries nutrients, when it carries oxygen.
- Not recognising the portal system links gut and liver.
Exam tip
Portal vein = into the liver; hepatic vein = out of the liver.
Sources
- NCERT Class XI Biology — Body Fluids and Circulation
- NCERT Class XI Biology — Digestion and Absorption