What is known as the "universal solvent"?

Water is known as the "universal solvent" due to its unique chemical properties that allow it to dissolve a wide variety of substances. This characteristic is primarily attributed to its molecular structure and the polarity of the water molecules.

Water has a bent molecular shape, which creates a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom. This polarity enables water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with other polar molecules and ionic compounds, effectively separating and surrounding these particles. As a result, many substances can dissolve into the aqueous phase, making water an excellent medium for chemical reactions and biological processes.

The high dielectric constant of water also contributes to its solvent capabilities, as it stabilizes ions in solution, further facilitating the dissolving process. This property is crucial in biological systems, where water acts as a solvent for many biochemical reactions, nutrient transport, and waste removal, establishing its role as the most essential and versatile solvent in nature.

In contrast, although the other substances listed can dissolve certain materials, they lack the extensive versatility and effectiveness that water possesses, particularly in terms of biological relevance and the wide range of solutes they can accommodate.