Solvent
The component of a solution present in the greater amount, which dissolves and disperses the solute.
Unit
L
In depth
The solvent determines the physical state of the solution and largely determines what will dissolve in it. Polar solvents such as water solvate ions effectively through ion–dipole interactions, while non-polar solvents dissolve non-polar molecules through dispersion forces alone.
Examples in the real world
Water as the universal solvent, ethanol in tinctures, hexane for extracting oils, and acetone as a nail-varnish remover.