A liquid substance capable of dissolving other substances is called a solvent. Solvents are essential in various chemical processes and everyday applications. They work by breaking down the molecules of the solute (the substance being dissolved) and dispersing them evenly throughout the solvent, creating a homogeneous mixture known as a solution.
For example, water is a common solvent that can dissolve many substances, such as salt and sugar. When salt is added to water, the water molecules surround the salt ions, causing them to separate and disperse throughout the water. This process is known as dissolution.
Solvents can be classified into different types based on their chemical properties. Some common types include polar solvents (like water) and non-polar solvents (like oil). The ability of a solvent to dissolve a particular solute depends on the nature of both the solvent and the solute, as well as the conditions such as temperature and pressure.
In summary, a solvent is a liquid that can dissolve other substances, playing a crucial role in chemistry and everyday life.