Which artery is located on the anterior surface of the foot between the first and second metatarsals?

The dorsalis pedis artery is the correct answer because it is the primary artery that supplies blood to the dorsum (top) of the foot, and it runs along the anterior surface. Specifically, the dorsalis pedis artery can be palpated between the first and second metatarsals, making it a landmark artery in this region.

It originates from the anterior tibial artery, which branches off higher up in the leg. As it continues towards the foot, it travels towards the first space between the metatarsals, which is crucial for assessing circulation and for various medical procedures or evaluations.

The other arteries mentioned have different locations and functions. The tibialis anterior artery is not an artery by itself but rather refers to the main arterial supply of the tibialis anterior muscle. The posterior tibial artery primarily supplies the posterior aspect of the leg and foot but does not run along the anterior surface between the metatarsals. Lastly, the arcuate artery arches across the top of the foot, providing branches to the toes but does not specifically occupy the space between the first and second metatarsals.