Question

Define solute and solvent.

Short answer

A solute is the substance dissolved, and a solvent is the substance that dissolves the solute.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Terms

Before we define 'solute' and 'solvent', it's important to understand that these terms are used in the context of solutions in chemistry. A solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances.

Define Solute

The solute is the substance that is dissolved in a solution. It is typically present in a smaller amount compared to the solvent. For example, in a saltwater solution, salt is the solute.

Define Solvent

The solvent is the substance that dissolves the solute, forming a solution. It is generally present in a larger amount than the solute. In many solutions, water acts as the solvent, such as in the saltwater example.

Key concepts

Solute

The solute is a fundamental concept in solution chemistry that refers to the substance being dissolved in a solution. It is usually the substance present in a smaller amount compared to the solvent. A good example of a solute is table salt, which dissolves in water to form saltwater.
The solute can be in various states of matter such as solid, liquid, or gas. Once it dissolves in the solvent, it forms a homogeneous mixture and becomes indistinguishable from the solvent visually.

• *Characteristic:* Usually, the solute is present in a lesser amount.
• *Role:* Participates in forming a solution by dispersing evenly throughout the solvent.

In the process of dissolving, interactions occur between the solute particles and the molecules of the solvent, which is essential for the solute to break apart and evenly distribute itself within the solvent.

Solvent

The solvent is the medium in which the solute dissolves, generating a solution. It is typically present in a larger amount than the solute. Water is one of the most common solvents, known as the "universal solvent," due to its ability to dissolve a wide variety of substances.
The primary function of the solvent is to break apart and surround solute particles, facilitating a uniform distribution throughout the solution. This property makes solvents crucial for creating homogeneous mixtures where the individual components are not visibly distinguishable.
Some common characteristics of solvents include:

• *Amount:* Present in a greater quantity than the solute.
• *Role:* Acts as a medium for dissolving the solute.

The choice of a solvent can depend on the nature of the solute. For instance, polar solvents like water are typically good at dissolving ionic and polar solutes, while nonpolar solvents like oil can dissolve nonpolar substances.

Homogeneous Mixture

A homogeneous mixture is a mixture in which its components are evenly distributed throughout. In the context of solutions, it means the solute has completely dissolved in the solvent, creating a mixture that is uniform at the molecular level.
One cannot visually distinguish the different substances within a homogeneous mixture, as they appear as a single phase. This uniformity is what makes solutions distinct from other mixtures such as heterogeneous mixtures, where different components are visible.
Features of a homogeneous mixture include:

• *Uniformity:* The composition is consistent throughout the entire solution.
• *Appearance:* Appears as a single phase; components are not distinct.

Homogeneous mixtures are common in everyday life, examples include sugar dissolved in tea or gases like air. Understanding the qualities of homogeneous mixtures is key to mastering solution chemistry concepts.