Approximately 80 percent of the dermis consists of _______ connective tissue.

The correct answer is dense irregular connective tissue. The dermis, which is the layer of skin located between the epidermis and subcutaneous tissue, is primarily composed of dense irregular connective tissue. This type of tissue is characterized by its thick fibers that are woven together in a mesh-like structure, providing strength and elasticity to the skin.

Dense irregular connective tissue contains a network of collagen fibers that can withstand various stresses from different directions, which is essential for the skin's structural integrity. This composition allows the dermis to resist tearing and supports the skin's overall resilience against mechanical forces. Additionally, it houses skin appendages like hair follicles, sweat glands, and blood vessels, all of which are crucial for the skin’s functionality.

The other options refer to different types of connective tissue that do not make up the majority of the dermis. Loose connective tissue, for example, is more flexible and typically found in areas that require cushioning. Cartilage is a specialized connective tissue that provides structural support in areas like joints and the respiratory tract but is not present in the skin’s dermis. Elastic connective tissue contains a higher proportion of elastin fibers that allow for greater elasticity, but it is also not the predominant tissue in the dermis. Thus, dense irregular