Final answer:
Protein is manipulated into forming the base of an angel food cake through denaturation, which occurs when heat breaks the bonds holding the protein structure together. In angel food cake, the protein in egg whites is denatured by whipping and baking, creating a stable foam structure that gives the cake its light and fluffy texture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Protein is manipulated into forming the base of an angel food cake through a process called denaturation. This happens when heat is applied to the protein, causing the bonds holding the protein structure together to break. In the case of angel food cake, the protein in egg whites is denatured by whipping them to incorporate air and then baking the mixture. This creates a stable foam structure that gives the cake its light and fluffy texture.