meaning of "in soap making processes"

[C.Feem]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #246 "Confusing Words test (19)", question 5

In the past, people used ......... in soap making processes. Nowadays, many people feel that it's too strong and harsh so they opt for more gentle substances.

(a) lye
(b) lie
(c) lay

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #246 "Confusing Words test (19)", answer 5

In the past, people used lye in soap making processes. Nowadays, many people feel that it's too strong and harsh so they opt for more gentle substances.

Correct answer: (a) lye
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meaning of "in soap making processes", please.

C.Feem

[Linda]

Hello,
The 'process' represents the actions one has to take in order to make soap (in this case.) A process is made up of steps in order to obtain the desired result.
Take care.
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[Alan]

Or putting it more simply:in the processes used for making soap.

A
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[Conchita]

And, in even plainer language:

(People used lye) to make soap.