Final answer:
In a hematocrit test, the buffy coat is a normal layer containing white blood cells and platelets found between the separated plasma and red blood cells after centrifugation.
Step-by-step explanation:
When analyzing a microhematocrit tube after centrifugation, the buffy coat refers to a thin, pale layer that is found between the red blood cells (erythrocytes) at the bottom of the tube and the plasma above. The correct answer to the question is C) Consists of white blood cells and platelets. The buffy coat is an important component of the blood, which contains leukocytes (white blood cells), and thrombocytes (platelets). It is not an indicator of an abnormal result; rather, it is a normal and expected layer that appears during the testing process to measure the hematocrit level, which is the percentage of erythrocytes in a blood sample.