Which part of the skin primarily contains blood vessels and nerve endings?

The dermis is the correct choice because it serves as the deeper layer of the skin, playing a crucial role in containing blood vessels, nerve endings, and other important structures. This layer is composed of connective tissue and is responsible for providing strength and elasticity to the skin.

Blood vessels within the dermis are essential for delivering nutrients and oxygen to the skin, as well as for regulating temperature through vasodilation and vasoconstriction. Additionally, the presence of nerve endings in the dermis allows for the sensation of touch, pain, pressure, and temperature, making it vital for the skin's sensory functions.

In contrast, the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of the skin, does not contain blood vessels; instead, it receives nutrients via diffusion from the dermis. The stratum corneum is the outermost sub-layer of the epidermis and is mostly made up of dead skin cells, providing a protective barrier but lacking vascular and nervous structures. The hypodermis, or subcutaneous tissue, lies beneath the dermis and primarily consists of fat and connective tissue, serving as insulation and cushioning rather than being the site for blood vessels and nerve endings. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the dermis's role as the