Solvent: definition in chemistry
Solvent: The substance that dissolves a solute to form a solution, usually the component present in the larger amount.
Water dissolves so many substances that it is often called the universal solvent, but organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone and hexane are also widely used. A useful guideline is that like dissolves like: polar solvents dissolve ionic and polar substances, while nonpolar solvents dissolve nonpolar ones such as oils and grease. Choosing the right solvent matters in cleaning, painting, medicine and laboratory work.
Examples
- Water dissolving salt and sugar
- Acetone removing nail polish
- Ethanol carrying the flavor in vanilla extract
- Hexane extracting oil from crushed soybeans