Final answer:
The papillary layer is directly below the epidermis in the dermis and consists of loose, areolar connective tissue. It contains various structures such as blood vessels, nerve fibers, and touch receptors. Hence option C is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The dermis is the second major layer of the skin, lying beneath the epidermis. It is composed of two primary layers: the papillary layer and the reticular layer.
Papillary Layer: This is the upper layer of the dermis, and it is directly adjacent to the epidermis. The papillary layer consists of connective tissue with projections called papillae that extend into the epidermis. It plays a role in supporting and nourishing the epidermis.
Reticular Layer: This is the deeper and thicker layer of the dermis, located beneath the papillary layer. It provides strength, elasticity, and support to the skin. The reticular layer contains various structures such as blood vessels, hair follicles, sweat glands, and nerve endings.
The hypodermis (Option A) is not considered part of the dermis but is the layer of tissue below the dermis that primarily consists of adipose (fat) tissue. The stratum basale (Option D) is part of the epidermis, not the dermis. Hence option C is correct.