Solvent

Definition

A solvent is a substance, typically a liquid, that dissolves a solute resulting in a solution. Water is known as the 'universal solvent' due to its ability to dissolve many substances.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Water's polarity allows it to dissolve various solutes, making it an effective solvent.
2. The solubility of a substance in water depends on the chemical nature of both the solvent and the solute.
3. Solvents can be polar (like water) or non-polar (like oil), affecting their dissolving capabilities.
4. In biological systems, solvents play a crucial role in facilitating biochemical reactions by dissolving reactants.
5. Higher temperatures generally increase the solubility of solids and liquids in solvents.

Review Questions

• What property of water makes it an effective solvent?
• Why is water referred to as the 'universal solvent'?
• How does temperature affect the solubility of substances in solvents?

Related terms

solute: A substance that is dissolved in a solvent forming a solution.

solution: A homogeneous mixture composed of two or more substances where one substance is dissolved in another.

polarity: A molecule's distribution of electrical charge leading to regions with partial positive and negative charges, influencing its interactions with other molecules.