Which layer contains stratum basale and various other strata?

The epidermis is the correct choice because it is the outermost layer of the skin and is composed of multiple strata, including the stratum basale (the deepest layer). The stratum basale is vital as it contains basal cells that are responsible for the generation of new skin cells. Above the stratum basale, the epidermis includes several other layers such as the stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, and stratum corneum, each playing unique roles in the skin's structure and function.

In contrast, the dermis, located beneath the epidermis, consists primarily of connective tissue and is responsible for providing skin strength and elasticity. The hypodermis, also known as the subcutaneous layer, lies under the dermis and contains fat and connective tissue, serving primarily as insulation and cushioning for the body. Understanding these distinctions clarifies the organization of the skin and the specific functions of its various layers, further reinforcing why the epidermis, with its multiple strata, is the correct answer.