Final answer:
The light and airy texture of angel food cake is primarily due to the presence of beaten egg whites, which incorporate air into the mixture and create tiny air bubbles. Additionally, the high proportion of sugar and low fat content in the cake contribute to its light texture.
Step-by-step explanation:
The light and airy texture of angel food cake is primarily due to the presence of beaten egg whites. When egg whites are whipped, they incorporate air into the mixture, creating tiny air bubbles. During baking, these air bubbles expand, causing the cake to rise and become light and fluffy.
Additionally, angel food cake contains a high proportion of sugar and a low amount of fat. The sugar helps to stabilize the air bubbles, while the low fat content allows the cake to maintain its light texture.
Overall, the combination of beaten egg whites, sugar, and low fat content contributes to the light and airy texture of angel food cake.