Which statement best describes the difference between a solvent and a solute in a solution?

• A. The solute is always a liquid, and the solvent is always a solid.
• B. The solvent is the substance that gets dissolved, and the solute is the substance that does the dissolving.
• C. The solvent is the substance present in the greatest amount, while the solute is the substance dissolved in the solvent.
• D. Both the solvent and solute are always present in equal amounts in a solution.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions of solvent and solute in a solution: A solution is a homogeneous mixture composed of two or more substances.
2. Identify the solvent: The solvent is the substance present in the greatest amount in the solution and acts as the medium in which other substances dissolve.
3. Identify the solute: The solute is the substance or substances that are dissolved in the solvent, usually present in a smaller amount.
4. Recognize that the physical state of solvent and solute can vary (solid, liquid, or gas), so statements restricting them to specific states are incorrect.
5. Conclude that the best description is that the solvent is the substance present in the greatest amount, while the solute is the substance dissolved in the solvent.