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Solvent

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Biology for Non-STEM Majors

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.

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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?
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