Solvent Examples in Chemistry

Start with the recap, study the fully worked examples, then use the practice problems to check your understanding of Solvent.

This page combines explanation, solved examples, and follow-up practice so you can move from recognition to confident problem-solving in Chemistry.

Concept Recap

The substance in a solution that does the dissolving, typically present in the larger amount.

The 'background' substance that the solute dissolves into. Water is called the 'universal solvent' because it dissolves so many things.

Read the full concept explanation →

How to Use These Examples

  • Read the first worked example with the solution open so the structure is clear.
  • Try the practice problems before revealing each solution.
  • Use the related concepts and background knowledge badges if you feel stuck.

What to Focus On

Core idea: The solvent determines the phase of the solution. Solvent molecules surround and separate solute particles.

Common stuck point: 'Like dissolves like' — polar solvents (water) dissolve polar solutes, nonpolar solvents dissolve nonpolar solutes.

Sense of Study hint: When identifying the solvent, look for the component present in the greater amount that determines the solution's phase. First check which substance is the majority component — that is typically the solvent. Then note that the solution takes the physical state of the solvent (liquid solvent gives a liquid solution). Finally, apply 'like dissolves like' to predict compatibility: polar solvents dissolve polar and ionic solutes, nonpolar solvents dissolve nonpolar solutes.

Worked Examples

Example 1

easy
Why is water called the 'universal solvent'?

Solution

  1. 1
    Water is polar — the O–H bonds create a molecule with a partial negative end (O) and partial positive end (H).
  2. 2
    This polarity allows water to dissolve many ionic compounds (by attracting ions) and polar molecules.
  3. 3
    No other common solvent dissolves as many different substances as water.

Answer

\text{Water's polarity allows it to dissolve many ionic and polar substances.}
The term 'universal solvent' is an exaggeration — water does not dissolve everything (e.g., oil is nonpolar and does not dissolve well in water). The principle 'like dissolves like' governs solubility.

Example 2

medium
Explain 'like dissolves like' using the example of oil and water versus oil and hexane.

Practice Problems

Try these problems on your own first, then open the solution to compare your method.

Example 1

easy
In a solution of ethanol and water where water is 70\% by volume, which is the solvent?

Example 2

hard
Nail polish does not dissolve in water but dissolves easily in acetone. Explain why a different solvent is needed, and predict whether nail polish would dissolve in vegetable oil.
← Back to Solvent Practice Mode

Background Knowledge

These ideas may be useful before you work through the harder examples.

homogeneous mixturesolute