What flavor attributes do hops impart on beer?

Hops are a fundamental ingredient in brewing beer, primarily known for their role in balancing the sweetness of malt with their bitterness. The bitterness derived from hops is measured in International Bitterness Units (IBUs) and comes from compounds called alpha acids, which are released during the boiling process.

In addition to providing bitterness, hops contribute various flavor and aromatic qualities to beer, depending on the hop varieties used and the timing of their addition during the brewing process. The specific oils in hops can impart flavors such as citrus, pine, floral, or herbal notes, contributing significantly to the overall profile of the beer.

Given these points, the correct choice highlights the essential roles that bitterness, flavor, and aroma play in the final product. Other options refer to attributes that don't arise from hops: sweetness and carbonation are primarily derived from the malt and fermentation process; color and clarity are influenced by the malt and brewing method; while body and mouthfeel relate to the overall texture and fullness of the beer, which comes from factors like malt composition and carbonation rather than hops themselves.