Final answer:
Sodium benzoate is the additive that inhibits mold growth in soda pop due to its ability to lower intracellular pH and disrupt microbial cell functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The additive that would inhibit mold in soda pop is B. Sodium benzoate. This chemical preservative is used in acidic foods such as soft drinks to control the growth of molds bacteria, and yeast. Sodium benzoate works by decreasing the intracellular pH and interfering with various mechanisms within cells including oxidative phosphorylation and the uptake of amino acids making it unfavorable for mold growth.
It is one of the commonly used food preservatives and is preferred because it doesn't alter the flavor of the product it's preserving.