Which of the following statements accurately defines protein denaturation and describes its causes, while distinguishing between reversible and irreversible denaturation?

Protein denaturation is when a protein’s shape changes so it can no longer work properly. This shape change usually happens because the temperature rises, a chemical is added, or the pH becomes too high or low, which breaks the weak bonds that keep the protein folded. If the conditions are returned to normal, the protein can sometimes refold and regain function; this is called reversible denaturation. If the bonds are broken too badly or the protein is damaged, it can’t refold and the loss of function is permanent, which is irreversible denaturation. For example, heating an egg white turns it from clear to white and solid because the heat breaks the bonds, and the egg white will not become clear again even if cooled.