What are the three major branches of the abdominal aorta?

The three major branches of the abdominal aorta are indeed the celiac trunk, the superior mesenteric artery (SMA), and the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA). These branches are critical as they supply blood to various regions of the gastrointestinal tract.

The celiac trunk provides blood to the stomach, liver, spleen, and parts of the pancreas and duodenum. The superior mesenteric artery supplies blood to the small intestine and part of the large intestine. The inferior mesenteric artery supplies the remainder of the large intestine. This arterial configuration is essential for maintaining the vascular supply necessary for the digestive system's function.

The other options include branches and arteries that do not represent the three major branches of the abdominal aorta. The renal arteries are important but branch off the abdominal aorta lower than the primary three branches, while the hepatic artery and iliac arteries are separate branches associated with different regions. The common carotid, subclavian, and femoral arteries are primarily branches of other arteries and do not connect directly to the abdominal aorta. Lastly, options that include adrenal and lumbar arteries represent branches, but they do not make up the primary trio of major abdominal aortic branches.