AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -At the molecular level, salt dissolves in water due to electrical charges and due to the fact that both water and salt compounds are polar, with positive and negative charges on opposite sides in the molecule. This allows the water molecule to become attracted to many other different types of molecules.

Detailed explanation-2: -Water is called a ‘universal solvent’ because water can dissolve much more substances than any other liquid found in nature but water cannot dissolve every substance. For example-water cannot dissolve fats, waxes, and hydroxides due to the low solubility of oppositely charged particles.

Detailed explanation-3: -Water’s extensive capability to dissolve a variety of molecules has earned it the designation of “universal solvent, ” and it is this ability that makes water such an invaluable life-sustaining force. On a biological level, water’s role as a solvent helps cells transport and use substances like oxygen or nutrients.

Detailed explanation-4: -It is polar, allowing for the formation of hydrogen bonds, which allow ions and other polar molecules to dissolve in water. Therefore, water is an excellent solvent. The hydrogen bonds between water molecules give water the ability to hold heat better than many other substances.