Which type of connective tissue has a dense arrangement and provides strong support?

Dense connective tissue features a tightly packed structure with a high concentration of collagen fibers, making it particularly strong and resilient. This type of connective tissue is critical for providing robust support and structure to various body parts such as tendons and ligaments. The dense arrangement of fibers allows it to withstand tensile forces effectively, ensuring that it can support muscles and connect bones with minimal deformation.

In contrast, loose connective tissue has a more relaxed and flexible arrangement of fibers, which provides cushioning and support but lacks the strength found in dense connective tissue. Adipose tissue, primarily serving as fat storage, has a sparse matrix and does not offer strong support. Cartilage, while it does provide support, has a different composition that includes a gel-like matrix which allows for flexibility rather than the dense strength characteristic of dense connective tissue. Thus, dense connective tissue is the most appropriate choice when considering strong support due to its unique structural properties.