A solvent is a substance that is able to dissolve other substances, known as solutes, to form a solution. Solvents are typically liquids, but can also be gases or solids. They are commonly used in a wide range of applications, such as cleaning, manufacturing, and chemical reactions. Examples of solvents include water, alcohol, acetone, and mineral spirits.
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Google Gemini AI
Jun 25
Definition:
A solvent is a substance that dissolves another substance (the solute) to form a homogeneous mixture known as a solution.
Characteristics:
- Polarity: Solvents can be classified as polar or nonpolar based on their ability to interact with ions or polar solutes. - Boiling point: Solvents have different boiling points, ranging from low-boiling to high-boiling liquids. - Volatility: Solvents can vary in their volatility, which refers to their tendency to evaporate. - Miscibility: Some solvents are miscible with each other, meaning they can form homogeneous mixtures, while others are immiscible. - Protic/Aprote: Protic solvents have a hydrogen atom bonded to an electronegative atom that can donate a proton, while aprotic solvents do not.
Types of Solvents:
- Water: The universal solvent, highly polar and dissolves a wide range of ionic and polar solutes. - Alcohols: Polar solvents with hydroxyl groups that can form hydrogen bonds. - Ketones: Polar solvents with a carbonyl group, which can also form hydrogen bonds. - Ethers: Nonpolar solvents with an ether group, which have low polarity and dissolve nonpolar solutes. - Hydrocarbons: Nonpolar solvents such as alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes.
Uses of Solvents:
Solvents are used in various applications, including:
- Cleaning and degreasing: Removing contaminants and oils from surfaces. - Extracting: Isolating specific compounds from a mixture. - Painting and coating: Suspending pigments and polymers to create coatings. - Food processing: Dissolving and dispersing flavors, colors, and preservatives. - Pharmaceuticals: Delivering drugs and extracting active ingredients.