Which statement best describes the relationship between the dermis and the hypodermis?

• A. The hypodermis lies above the dermis
• B. The dermis comprises mostly adipose tissue
• C. The hypodermis lies below the dermis and is not actually part of the skin
• D. The hypodermis contains no blood vessels

Answer: (C)

The relationship being tested is how the skin layers are organized. The hypodermis, also called the subcutaneous layer, lies beneath the dermis and is not considered part of the skin itself. This layer is mainly adipose tissue and loose connective tissue that stores fat, provides insulation, and helps anchor the skin to underlying structures. It also contains larger blood vessels and nerves that supply the skin.

So the best statement is that the hypodermis lies below the dermis and is not actually part of the skin. The other options don’t fit: the hypodermis isn’t above the dermis; the dermis is not mostly adipose tissue (that fat is in the hypodermis); and the hypodermis does contain blood vessels.