QuestionJuly 5, 2025

Discussion Topic It's sometimes said that water is a "universal solvent." Do a little research on this term. Why do some people call it this? What aspect of its structure makes it a good solvent? If a "universal solvent" could dissolve anything, what problems might you imagine that would cause in everyday life?

Discussion Topic It's sometimes said that water is a "universal solvent." Do a little research on this term. Why do some people call it this? What aspect of its structure makes it a good solvent? If a "universal solvent" could dissolve anything, what problems might you imagine that would cause in everyday life?
Discussion Topic
It's sometimes said that water is a "universal solvent." Do a little research on this term.
Why do some people call it this? What aspect of its structure makes it a good solvent? If
a "universal solvent" could dissolve anything, what problems might you imagine that
would cause in everyday life?

Solution
4.4(240 votes)

Answer

Water is termed a "universal solvent" due to its ability to dissolve many substances, attributed to its polar structure. If it dissolved everything, practical containment would be unfeasible. Explanation 1. Define "Universal Solvent" Water is called a "universal solvent" because it can dissolve more substances than any other liquid. 2. Explain Structural Aspect Water's polarity and hydrogen bonding make it effective at dissolving ionic compounds and polar molecules. 3. Discuss Potential Problems If water could dissolve anything, containers would be impossible to use, leading to storage and infrastructure issues.

Explanation

1. Define "Universal Solvent"<br /> Water is called a "universal solvent" because it can dissolve more substances than any other liquid.<br /><br />2. Explain Structural Aspect<br /> Water's polarity and hydrogen bonding make it effective at dissolving ionic compounds and polar molecules.<br /><br />3. Discuss Potential Problems<br /> If water could dissolve anything, containers would be impossible to use, leading to storage and infrastructure issues.
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