Questions: The is divided into the papillary portion and the reticular portion. (A) dermis (B) epidermis (C) hypodermis (D) peridermis

The answer is the first one (A): dermis.

Explanation for each option:

(A) Dermis: Correct. The dermis is the layer of skin located beneath the epidermis and is divided into two regions: the papillary portion and the reticular portion. The papillary portion is the upper layer, which contains loose connective tissue and is responsible for the fingerprints, while the reticular portion is the deeper layer, composed of dense connective tissue that provides strength and elasticity to the skin.

(B) Epidermis: Incorrect. The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and does not have a papillary or reticular portion. It is primarily composed of keratinocytes and serves as a protective barrier.

(C) Hypodermis: Incorrect. The hypodermis, also known as the subcutaneous layer, lies below the dermis and is primarily composed of fat and connective tissue. It is not divided into papillary and reticular portions.

(D) Peridermis: Incorrect. The term "peridermis" is not commonly used in the context of human skin anatomy. It does not refer to a layer of the skin that is divided into papillary and reticular portions.

In summary, the dermis is the correct answer as it is the skin layer divided into the papillary and reticular portions.