Why is water often referred to as the universal solvent?
CHEMISTRY
JAMB 2023
Why is water often referred to as the universal solvent?
- A. Water is the most abundant substance on Earth
- B. Water is essential for all living organisms.
- C. Water is involved in many chemical reactions
- D. Water can dissolve a wide variety of substances due to its polar nature
Correct Answer: D. Water can dissolve a wide variety of substances due to its polar nature
Explanation
Water is often referred to as the universal solvent because of its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances. This unique property is mainly due to water's polar nature. Water molecules have a slightly positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a slightly negative charge on the oxygen atom, making it a polar molecule. This polarity allows water molecules to interact with and surround other polar and ionic substances, breaking them down and forming solutions.
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