Solute and solvent are the parts that make up a solution. A solution can be defined as the homogeneous mixture of two or more substances.
So, in a solution, the substance that dissolves is the solute, while the solvent is the substance in which the solute dissolves..
There are many products in everyday life prepared by mixing one or more solutes and solvents that form a solution. The biggest examples are syrups, liquid detergent, ointments, tea, coffee, juices, etc. In coffee, for example, water is the solvent and coffee powder is the solute.
Coffee, one of the most common examples of a solution with solute and solvent.
A homogeneous mixture is the solution in which the solutes dissolve completely and evenly into the solution. While solubility is the ability of a substance to dissolve into another substance.
The main differences between solute and solvent
Knowing that solute and solvent are substances that have different purposes in a solution, the chart below will guide you to understand the main differences between the two components.
| Point for comparison | Solute | Solvent |
|---|---|---|
| DEFINITION | A substance that dissolves in the solvent in a solution is called a solute; the solute is present in less quantity than the solvent. | The substance that dissolves the solute in a solution is called a solvent; the solvent is present in greater quantity than the solute. |
| BOILING POINT | The boiling point is higher than the solvent. |
It is smaller than that of the solute. |
| PHYSICAL STATE | Changes your physical state. | Maintain your physical state. |
Characteristics and examples of solutes
The solute particles in a solution cannot be seen with the naked eye. Furthermore, a solution does not allow light rays to spread and is stable.
The solute from a solution cannot be separated by filtration (or mechanically). It consists of only one phase.
Some examples of a solute are:
- Powdered milk;
- Sea water salt;
- Oxygen in the air;
- Sugar in water.
Characteristics and examples of solvents
The solvent takes up most of a solution and usually has/is in liquid form. Water is said to be the most common solvent in everyday life, so it is called the universal solvent as it has the ability to dissolve any substance (gas, solid or liquid).
Some examples of solvent are:
- Water;
- Acetone;
- Alcohol;
- Gasoline
- Benzene;
- Xylene.
See too:
- Solubility;
- Osmosis;
- Dissolution;
- Boiling;
- Fusion point;
- Fusion.
