Solvent

Definition

A solvent is a substance, usually a liquid, that dissolves a solute, resulting in a solution. Solvents are essential in chemistry as they determine the physical and chemical properties of solutions and play a crucial role in processes like dilution, extraction, and chemical reactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Water is known as the universal solvent because it can dissolve many substances due to its polarity.
2. Solvents can be classified into two main categories: polar and nonpolar, based on their ability to dissolve different types of solutes.
3. In some cases, a solvent can also be a reactant in chemical reactions, participating in the transformation of solutes.
4. The concentration of a solution can be affected by the amount of solvent added, which changes how much solute can be dissolved.
5. Volatile solvents can easily evaporate at room temperature, while non-volatile solvents have low evaporation rates.

Review Questions

• How does the polarity of a solvent influence its ability to dissolve different solutes?
  • The polarity of a solvent greatly affects its ability to dissolve solutes. Polar solvents, like water, are effective at dissolving other polar substances and ionic compounds due to the attraction between their charged regions. Conversely, nonpolar solvents tend to dissolve nonpolar substances. This principle of 'like dissolves like' helps explain why certain solvents work better for specific types of solutes.
• Discuss the role of solvents in chemical reactions and how they can influence reaction rates.
  • Solvents play a significant role in chemical reactions by providing an environment where reactants can interact. They can influence reaction rates by affecting the concentration of reactants and the activation energy needed for the reaction to occur. Additionally, the choice of solvent can affect the stability and reactivity of intermediates formed during the reaction, which may ultimately change the product yield and selectivity.
• Evaluate the environmental implications of using organic solvents in industrial processes and suggest alternative approaches.
  • The use of organic solvents in industrial processes raises environmental concerns due to their potential toxicity and contribution to air pollution. Many organic solvents are volatile and can cause harmful effects on both human health and ecosystems. To address these issues, industries are increasingly adopting green chemistry principles by using water-based solvents or developing less toxic alternatives. Implementing solvent recycling methods and improving process efficiency can also mitigate environmental impacts while maintaining effective production.

Related terms

solute: A solute is the substance that is dissolved in a solvent to form a solution.

solution: A solution is a homogeneous mixture formed when a solute is dissolved in a solvent.

polarity: Polarity refers to the distribution of electrical charge over the atoms joined by the bond, influencing how solvents interact with solutes.