Solute

The component which is dissolved in the solvent is called solute.

It is usually present in less quantity.

 

Example -

  • In a solution of salt and water, sugar is dissolved
  • So, salt is solute.

 

Solvent

The component of a solution which dissolves the other component in itself is called solvent.

It is usually present in larger quantities.

 

Example -

  • In a solution of salt and water, water dissolves the salt
  • So, water is solvent

 

Difference between Solute and Solvent

Solute Solvent
Component which is Dissolved Component which dissolves the other component
It is usually present in smaller quantities It is usually present in larger quantities
Boiling point is higher than solvent Boiling point is lower than solute
Found in solid, liquid or gaseous state Found majorly in liquid state, but can be gaseous as well

Example :

  • In Air , Oxygen is the solute
  • In Coca-Cola , Carbon Dioxide is the solute
  • In sea water , salt is the solute

Example :

  • In Air , Nitrogen is the solute
  • In Coca-Cola , Water is the solute
  • In sea water , water is the solute

 

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Maninder Singh's photo - Co-founder, Teachoo

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Maninder Singh

CA Maninder Singh is a Chartered Accountant for the past 14 years and a teacher from the past 18 years. He teaches Science, Economics, Accounting and English at Teachoo