Solvent Chemistry Example 3

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 3

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

Solution

  1. 1
    The solvent is the substance present in the greater amount.
  2. 2
    Water is 70%70\% by volume, so water is the solvent and ethanol is the solute.

Answer

Water is the solvent\text{Water is the solvent}
When both components are liquids, the one in larger proportion is typically designated the solvent.

About Solvent

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

Learn more about Solvent →

More Solvent Examples

Example 1 easy

Why is water called the 'universal solvent'?

Example 2 medium

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

Example 4 hard

Nail polish does not dissolve in water but dissolves easily in acetone. Explain why a different solv

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