A solvent is simply a substance that can dissolve other molecules and compounds, which are known as solutes. ... Because of its polarity and ability to form hydrogen bonds, water makes an excellent solvent, meaning that it can dissolve many different kinds of molecules.

Why is water a solute?

The solute is the substance which is dissolved by the solvent. For example, in a solution of salt and water, water is the solvent and salt is the solute. Solutions are formed because the molecules of the solute are attracted to the molecules of the solvent. ... Gasoline is a complex solution of liquids.

Why is water a good solvent for solutes?

Water is a good solvent due to its polarity.

The relatively small size of water molecules typically allows many water molecules to surround one molecule of solute. The partially negative dipoles of the water are attracted to positively charged components of the solute, and vice versa for the positive dipoles.