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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Solution and Solvent?

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The difference between a solution and a solvent lies in their composition and role in the dissolution process. Here are the key differences:

  • Solution: A solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances, where one substance (the solute) is dissolved into another substance (the solvent). Solutions can be formed with various types and forms of solutes and solvents, and they can be gas/gas, gas/liquid, liquid/liquid, or solid/liquid. For example, an aqueous solution of salt is a homogeneous mixture of salt (solute) dissolved in water (solvent).
  • Solvent: A solvent is the substance that has dissolving capability, and it is the component present in the larger amount in a solution. The solvent is responsible for dispersing the solute particles in the solution. Solvents can be liquids, such as water or ethanol, or gases, such as air.

In summary:

  • A solution is a homogeneous mixture of a solute and a solvent.
  • A solute is the material present in the smaller amount in the solution.
  • A solvent is the material present in the larger amount in the solution and is responsible for dissolving the solute.
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  • What is the Difference Between Solution and Solvent?
  • Comparative Table: Solution vs Solvent

    • Comparative Table: Solution vs Solvent

    Here is a table comparing the differences between a solution and a solvent:

    Solution Solvent
    A mixture of two or more substances, consisting of a solute and a solvent, which is homogeneous in nature. A single component that can contribute to making a solution by dissolving one or more substances.
    The solute is the substance that is being dissolved, and it can be present in gas, liquid, or solid form. The solvent is the dissolving medium, which can be in liquid, gas, or solid form.
    Examples of solutes include sugar, dissolved carbon dioxide, oxygen, water vapor, and argon. Examples of solvents include water, ethanol, methanol, acetone, tetrachloroethylene, toluene, methyl acetate, and ethyl acetate.
    In a solution, the amount of solute is less than the amount of solvent. In a solution, the amount of solvent is greater than the amount of solute.
    The dispersed phase of a solution is known as the solute. The medium phase of a solution that disperses the solute particles is called the solvent.

    Remember that a solution consists of both a solute and a solvent, while a solvent is a single component capable of dissolving one or more substances to create a solution.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.