Water is known as a universal solvent because it can dissolve many different substances. This happens for a few main reasons:
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Polar Molecule: Water is made up of molecules that have a positive side and a negative side, kind of like a magnet. Because of this, water can easily pull apart other molecules and separate them.
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Hydrogen Bonds: Water molecules stick together because they form weak bonds called hydrogen bonds. When water is mixed with something else, these bonds help water surround and break apart those other molecules.
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Interaction with Ions: Many substances, like salt, break into tiny pieces called ions when they dissolve in water. Water’s polarity allows it to surround these ions and keep them apart, helping them mix well.
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Versatility: Water can interact with many types of molecules, whether they are sugars, acids, or salts, allowing it to dissolve a wide variety of substances.
Because of these reasons, water is very effective at dissolving things, making it a great solvent!
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