What are the differences between solute and solvent?
Posted March 28, 2023
Answer
Basis of differentiation | Solute | Solvent |
Definition | A solute is a substance that can be dissolved into a solution by a solvent. | A solvent is a substance in which a solute is dissolved. |
Physical state | A solute may be in solid, liquid or gaseous state. | Most solvents are in liquid phase but few solvents may be in solid or gaseous phase. |
Solubility | Solubility of a solute in a solvent is determined by the surface area and molecule size of the solute. | Solubility of a solvent depends on the polarity of the solvent. |
Transfer of heat | Heat is transferred to the solute in a solution. | Heat is transferred from the liquid to the solution. |
Boiling point | Boiling point of the solute is higher than that of the solution. | Boiling point of solvent is lower than that of solutes. |
Examples | - Salt in saltwater
- Oxygen in seawater
- Carbon dioxide in carbonated drinks
- Zinc in dental amalgam
- Ethylene glycol in antifreeze
| - Water
- Ethanol
- Acetone
- Methyl acetate
- Methanol
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