In a solution of brine (salt water), which component acts as the solvent?

• A. Hydrogen chloride
• B. Sodium chloride
• C. Potassium chloride
• D. Water

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of a solvent: In a solution, the solvent is the substance present in the greatest amount and is the medium in which other substances (solutes) are dissolved.
2. Identify the components listed: Hydrogen chloride (HCl), sodium chloride (NaCl), potassium chloride (KCl), and water (H2O).
3. Recognize that hydrogen chloride, sodium chloride, and potassium chloride are all solutes (substances dissolved in the solution), while water is the common solvent in brine solutions.
4. Recall that brine is essentially salt water, where salt (NaCl) is dissolved in water, making water the solvent.
5. Conclude that in the brine solution, water acts as the solvent because it is the substance in the largest amount and dissolves the salts.