Question

Water is often called the "universal solvent" because many substances can be dissolved in water. What property of water allows it to be such a versatile solvent? (SC.912.L.18.12)

Answer 1

Water is a polar molecule (polar covalent bonds) that forms hydrogen bonds. Its partial negative oxygen and partial positive hydrogens attract and surround ions and other polar molecules (forming hydration shells), pulling them into solution. This polarity makes water an excellent solvent for ionic and polar substances.