Dissolvent

A dissolvent is a substance, typically a liquid, that causes another substance (the solute) to dissolve, forming a solution. The process of dissolution occurs when the solute's particles disperse uniformly throughout the dissolvent. A dissolvent's effectiveness depends on the nature of both the dissolvent and solute, influenced by factors such as polarity, temperature, and pressure. Common dissolvents include water, alcohol, and organic solvents like acetone. The term emphasizes the active role in breaking down and dispersing the other material. The best dissolvent creates a homogenous solution.

Dissolvent meaning with examples

• Acetone is a powerful dissolvent, used in the laboratory to clean glassware by removing oily residues, resins, and various other types of residue. Its rapid evaporation makes it ideal for this task. Without a good dissolvent, these residues would build up, causing an inaccurate reaction.
• When making watercolors, the artist uses water as a dissolvent to dilute the pigment and control the color intensity. Adding more water allows the color to spread easily when painting. Choosing the right dissolvent helps get the most from this task.
• In chemistry, scientists utilize specific organic dissolvents like hexane to extract certain compounds from plant materials by dissolving them. The extracted compound is then isolated. This process is heavily reliant on the properties of the dissolvent used.
• During the painting process, turpentine, often used as a dissolvent, is used to thin oil-based paints and clean brushes. This allows for greater control over the application. The right dissolvent allows easy cleanup and avoids wasting the pigment.
• Pharmaceutical companies frequently employ specific dissolvents, such as ethanol or saline solutions, to prepare drug formulations. The dissolvent must be chosen based on the drug's properties, ensuring effective delivery. Careful selection helps maximize its effect.