The subcutaneous tissue is a layer beneath the dermis that is primarily composed of which substance?

The subcutaneous tissue is a layer beneath the dermis that is primarily composed of which substance?

• A. Liquid
• B. Muscular
• C. Protective
• D. Fatty

Answer: (D)

Under the dermis lies the subcutaneous tissue, which is mainly adipose tissue—fat cells. This fatty layer stores energy as fat, provides cushioning to protect deeper structures, and helps insulate the body to regulate temperature. It isn’t mostly liquid or muscle tissue; those are different layers of the skin and underlying structures. Because its primary makeup is fat, the subcutaneous layer is described as fatty.

Under the dermis lies the subcutaneous tissue, which is mainly adipose tissue—fat cells. This fatty layer stores energy as fat, provides cushioning to protect deeper structures, and helps insulate the body to regulate temperature. It isn’t mostly liquid or muscle tissue; those are different layers of the skin and underlying structures. Because its primary makeup is fat, the subcutaneous layer is described as fatty.