Why is water often referred to as the "universal solvent"?
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Correct Answer: Option D
Explanation:
Water is often referred to as the "universal solvent" because of its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances. This unique property is mainly due to water's polar nature. Water molecules have a slightly positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a slightly negative charge on the oxygen atom, making it a polar molecule. This polarity allows water molecules to interact with and surround other polar and ionic substances, breaking them down and forming solutions.
Water is often referred to as the "universal solvent" because of its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances. This unique property is mainly due to water's polar nature. Water molecules have a slightly positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a slightly negative charge on the oxygen atom, making it a polar molecule. This polarity allows water molecules to interact with and surround other polar and ionic substances, breaking them down and forming solutions.