Solutes and Solvents

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What is a solute?

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A solute is a substance that is dissolved in a solvent to form a solution. For example, salt is a solute when it dissolves in water.

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What is a solvent?

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A solvent is a substance that dissolves a solute, resulting in a solution. Water is often called the 'universal solvent' because it can dissolve many substances.

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What is a solution?

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A solution is a homogeneous mixture formed when a solute is dissolved in a solvent. For example, sugar dissolved in water creates a sugar solution.

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What does it mean for a solution to be saturated?

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A saturated solution is one in which no more solute can dissolve at a given temperature and pressure. It has reached its maximum concentration.

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What is the difference between a solute and a solvent?

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The solute is the substance that is dissolved, while the solvent is the substance that does the dissolving. In saltwater, salt is the solute and water is the solvent.

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Can you name a common example of a solute and solvent?

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Yes! In a saltwater solution, salt is the solute and water is the solvent.

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What happens when you heat a solvent?

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Heating a solvent can increase its ability to dissolve more solute, often resulting in a greater concentration of the solution.

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What is concentration in terms of solutions?

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Concentration refers to the amount of solute present in a given volume of solvent or solution. It is often expressed in grams per liter.

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What is an example of an unsaturated solution?

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An unsaturated solution is one that can still dissolve more solute. For example, if you add sugar to water and it dissolves completely, the solution is unsaturated.

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What is a dilute solution?

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A dilute solution has a small amount of solute compared to the amount of solvent. For example, a glass of water with a few drops of food coloring is a dilute solution.