It's sometimes said that water is a "universal solvent." Research this term. Why do some people describe water in this way? What aspect of its structure makes it a good solvent? If a "universal solvent" could really dissolve anything, what problems do you imagine that would cause in everyday life?

Question

Chemistry

Declan Stevenson

5 October, 23:38

It's sometimes said that water is a "universal solvent." Research this term. Why do some people describe water in this way? What aspect of its structure makes it a good solvent? If a "universal solvent" could really dissolve anything, what problems do you imagine that would cause in everyday life?

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Josue Long · Answer 1

Water is called a "universal solvent' due to its ability to dissolve many substances. It can dissolve almost all substances. For every substance, water takes its own time to dissolve it. This is due to the polarity present in it.