Final answer:
Dense irregular connective tissue is composed of collagen fibers arranged randomly to provide strength in multiple directions, evident in the dermis of skin and arterial walls, enabling durability and flexibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
The matrix of dense irregular connective tissue proper comprises collagen fibers that are irregularly arranged in a mesh-like network, providing the tissue with high tensile strength and the ability to withstand stress from multiple directions. This type of connective tissue offers greater strength overall instead of in a single direction, compared to its counterpart, dense regular connective tissue, where fibers are aligned parallel. An example of dense irregular connective tissue is the dermis layer of the skin which contains collagen fibers richly distributed throughout to resist tearing when the skin is stretched in various directions. Furthermore, dense irregular elastic tissues within the walls of arteries allow these vessels to handle the high pressure of blood flow and return to their original shape after stretching.
In summary, the function of dense irregular connective tissue includes providing structure and strength to resist multidirectional forces, ensuring organ protection, and contributing to bodily flexibility and resilience, as observed in artery walls and the dermis.