Hydrolysis produces acidic fatty acids that lower pH

Steps:

• Lipase catalyzes hydrolysis of triglycerides into glycerol and three fatty acid molecules.
• Fatty acids dissociate in water, releasing H⁺ ions.
• Increased H⁺ concentration decreases solution pH.
• Buffer maintains optimal pH to avoid denaturation from acidity.

Why B is correct:

• Hydrolysis yields fatty acids, weak acids that increase [H⁺] per the definition of acids (proton donors), lowering pH.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Hydrolysis consumes water, not produces it; no pH increase from water addition.
• C: Products (fatty acids) decrease pH, not increase it.
• D: Hydrolysis incorporates water into products without net removal affecting pH that way.

Final answer: B