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Multiple Choice
When blood is centrifuged, what is found in the buffy coat?
A
Serum and electrolytes
B
Red blood cells only
C
White blood cells and platelets
D
Plasma proteins
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the composition of blood: Blood is made up of plasma (the liquid portion), red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets.
Learn what happens during centrifugation: Centrifugation separates blood components based on their density. The heavier components, like red blood cells, settle at the bottom, while the lighter components, like plasma, remain at the top.
Identify the buffy coat: The buffy coat is the thin layer that forms between the red blood cells and plasma after centrifugation. It contains white blood cells and platelets, which are less dense than red blood cells but denser than plasma.
Clarify what is NOT in the buffy coat: The buffy coat does not contain serum (the liquid portion of plasma without clotting factors), electrolytes, or plasma proteins, as these are part of the plasma layer.
Conclude the answer: The buffy coat specifically contains white blood cells and platelets, which are crucial for immune response and blood clotting, respectively.