Question

Define each of the following terms: solution, solvent, and solute.

Short answer

A solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances in a single phase, such as saltwater. A solvent, like water, is the substance in which a solute (e.g., table salt) dissolves to form a solution. The solvent breaks the solute particles into individual molecules, allowing them to disperse uniformly throughout the system.

Step-by-step solution

1. Definition of Solution

A solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances in a single phase (e.g., solid, liquid, or gas). The components in a solution are uniformly distributed at the molecular level, meaning that they appear as one substance throughout, even though they consist of multiple substances. An example of a solution is saltwater, where salt (sodium chloride) is mixed uniformly with water.

2. Definition of Solvent

A solvent is the substance in which a solute dissolves to form a solution. It is usually present in the largest amount and has the function of breaking the solute particles into individual molecules or ions, allowing them to disperse uniformly throughout the system. In a solution, the solvent determines the phase (e.g., liquid, solid, gas) of the resulting mixture. A common example of a solvent is water, which is referred to as the "universal solvent" due to its ability to dissolve a wide variety of substances.

3. Definition of Solute

A solute is the substance that dissolves in a solvent to form a solution. It is typically present in smaller amounts than the solvent. When a solute is dissolved, its individual molecules or ions are separated from their initial arrangement and become dispersed uniformly in the solvent. This process leads to the formation of a homogeneous mixture. An example of a solute is table salt (sodium chloride) dissolving in water to create a saltwater solution.

Key concepts

Homogeneous Mixtures

When discussing homogeneity in chemistry, we’re talking about a uniform composition throughout a material. Homogeneous mixtures are a prime example of uniformity, presenting indistinguishable parts to the naked eye. Consider a simple cup of coffee with sugar dissolved in it: no matter how small a sip you take, it will taste sweet throughout. This is because the sugar, the solute, is uniformly distributed in the coffee, the solvent.

While a kitchen blender combines ingredients to visually appear uniform, at the molecular level, the ideal homogeneous mixture like a saline solution is entirely even. There’s consistency in every sample. This principle is crucial, especially when calculating concentrations; knowing the solute is equally dispersed allows for correct dilution ratios, important in areas such as medicine.

Solvent

The concept of a solvent is akin to a powerful, yet gentle host that accommodates guests—the solute molecules. In the realm of solution chemistry, understanding a solvent's role is fundamental. A solvent is typically the component present in a greater quantity compared to its counterpart, the solutes. Its main task is to dissolve other substances, a role it achieves by loosening and separating solute particles, effectively breaking them down to mingle freely and evenly throughout.

Water, the 'universal solvent', is renowned for its solvent capabilities, dissolving numerous substances from salts to gases. Its unique molecular structure and polarity contribute to its dissolving prowess. Being familiar with solvent properties is necessary when predicting solubility, mixing reagents, or even in culinary tasks like creating a marinade or syrup.

Solute

A solute takes the part of the dissolved substance in the creation of a solution. Found in lesser amounts compared to the solvent, solutes can be solid, liquid, or gas. Once dissolved, they break into individual particles that distribute uniformly throughout the solvent. This process leads to their invisibility in the resulting solution.

An everyday illustration would be salt in seawater, where the salt crystals, our solute, break into ions completely spread out within the water. Understanding solutes is indispensable for comprehending solution processes such as concentration, which matters for tasks ranging from seasoning food properly to dosing medication accurately.