Solvent

Definition

A solvent is a substance, typically a liquid, that dissolves a solute to form a solution. The solvent is usually present in greater amount compared to the solute.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Water is known as the 'universal solvent' because it can dissolve many substances.
2. In an aqueous solution, water acts as the solvent.
3. The ability of a solvent to dissolve a solute depends on factors like temperature and polarity.
4. Solvents can be organic (e.g., ethanol) or inorganic (e.g., water).
5. Molarity (M) is calculated using the formula: $M = \frac{moles\ of\ solute}{liters\ of\ solution}$ where the volume includes both solvent and solute.

Review Questions

• What role does water play in an aqueous solution?
• How do temperature and polarity affect the ability of a solvent to dissolve a solute?
• What is the formula for calculating molarity?

Related terms

Solute:

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

Solution:

A homogeneous mixture composed of two or more substances, where one substance (solute) is dissolved in another (solvent).

Molarity:

$M = \frac{moles\ of\ solute}{liters\ of\ solution}$; A measure of the concentration of solute in a solution.