Final answer:
The subcutaneous tissue or hypodermis is the layer below the dermis mainly comprised of adipose tissue, and it is responsible for fat storage, insulation, and cushioning.
Step-by-step explanation:
The layer of the skin located below the dermis and composed primarily of adipose (fatty) tissue is c) Subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis).The subcutaneous tissue, also known as the hypodermis, is the deepest layer of the skin. It is primarily composed of adipose or fatty tissue, which serves as an energy source, insulation, and padding for the body. This layer connects the dermis to the underlying muscle and bone, and it contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.
The subcutaneous tissue, also known as the hypodermis, lies directly beneath the dermis. It is composed mainly of loose connective and adipose tissue, which serves as an energy reserve, acts as insulation for temperature regulation, and provides cushioning to protect the body's muscles and bones. The subcutaneous layer contains larger blood vessels and nerves than those found in the dermis and is not technically part of the skin, but it connects the skin to the underlying fascia (fibrous tissue) of the bones and muscles. The dermis, on the other hand, is the tough, vascular layer above the subcutaneous tissue that contains nerve endings, sweat gland, hair follicles, and other structures.