Question
2. Why is water called the “universal solvent?” Is this an accurate label? Explain your answer.
Answers
GPT 3.5
Water is called the "universal solvent" because it has the ability to dissolve a wide variety of substances. This property is due to the polar nature of water molecules. Water molecules consist of one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms, and the oxygen atom has a slightly negative charge, while the hydrogen atoms have a slightly positive charge. This polarity allows water molecules to attract and surround other polar or charged molecules, breaking them apart and dispersing them in the water.
However, it is important to note that water does not dissolve all substances. Some substances, such as nonpolar molecules like oils and fats, do not dissolve well in water. Additionally, there are certain salts and minerals that have limited solubility in water.
Therefore, while water can dissolve a wide range of substances, it cannot dissolve everything, making the label of "universal solvent" not completely accurate. Nonetheless, water's ability to dissolve numerous substances makes it a highly versatile and important solvent in many biological, chemical, and environmental processes.
However, it is important to note that water does not dissolve all substances. Some substances, such as nonpolar molecules like oils and fats, do not dissolve well in water. Additionally, there are certain salts and minerals that have limited solubility in water.
Therefore, while water can dissolve a wide range of substances, it cannot dissolve everything, making the label of "universal solvent" not completely accurate. Nonetheless, water's ability to dissolve numerous substances makes it a highly versatile and important solvent in many biological, chemical, and environmental processes.