Identify the solute and solvent in each solution. (a) 80-proof vodka (40% ethyl alcohol)

Problem 26P

Identify the solute and solvent in each solution.

(a) 80-proof vodka (40% ethyl alcohol)

(b) oxygenated water

(c) antifreeze (ethylene glycol and water)

                                                        Step by Step Solution

Step 1 of 4

Let us first discuss what a solvent and a solute are.

Solvent – We can define a solvent as a substance that can dissolve other chemically distinct substances that can be either solid, liquid, or gas.

Solute – Solute are those chemical substances that get dissolved in a solvent of a similar property.

The dissolution of these two substances occurs based on a theory called “Like dissolves Like.”

Here the word “Like” signifies the compounds similar in terms of polarity. Polar solutes dissolve quickly in polar solvents whereas non-polar solutes dissolve in a non-polar solvent.