What condition may form when arteries are clogged with plaque?

Atherosclerosis is the correct answer because it is a specific condition characterized by the buildup of plaque within the arteries, which is primarily composed of fats, cholesterol, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, this plaque accumulation can cause the arteries to narrow, leading to reduced blood flow and increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. The process of atherosclerosis can start early in life and may progress through factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes.

While the other options relate to cardiovascular health, they do not specifically signify the direct effect of plaque buildup in arteries. Hypertension refers to high blood pressure, which can be a result or a contributing factor to atherosclerosis rather than a direct consequence of plaque. Aortic stenosis relates to the narrowing of the aortic valve rather than arterial plaque. Arrhythmia refers to irregular heartbeats, which can occur due to various factors, including but not limited to the effects of atherosclerosis but is not caused by arterial plaque itself. Thus, atherosclerosis directly connects to the condition described in the question regarding the clogging of arteries with plaque.