what part of a solution is the solvent. give an example of a common solvent in biology
The correct answer and explanation is:
In a solution, the solvent is the substance that dissolves the solute. It is typically present in the greater amount compared to the solute. The solvent facilitates the dissolution of the solute, leading to the formation of a homogeneous mixture. For example, in a saltwater solution, water is the solvent, and salt is the solute.
In biological contexts, one of the most common solvents is water. Water is crucial to biological processes because it has unique properties that make it an ideal solvent. It is known as the “universal solvent” because it can dissolve a wide range of substances, which is vital for various biochemical reactions.
Water’s ability to dissolve many substances is due to its polar nature. Each water molecule has a slight positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a slight negative charge on the oxygen atom. This polarity allows water to interact with and dissolve polar or ionic substances. For instance, when salt (NaCl) dissolves in water, the positive sodium ions (Na+) are attracted to the negative oxygen atoms of water molecules, and the negative chloride ions (Cl-) are attracted to the positive hydrogen atoms.
Water is essential for many biological functions, including transporting nutrients and waste products, regulating temperature, and facilitating enzyme activity. It also plays a role in the structure of macromolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, by forming hydrogen bonds that contribute to their folding and stability.
The solvent’s role is central to maintaining the proper conditions for life processes. Without water as the solvent, many of the biochemical reactions essential for life would not occur efficiently, if at all. This is why water is often considered one of the most vital solvents in biological systems.