A solvent is a substance, usually a liquid, that has the ability to dissolve other substances, known as solutes, to form a solution. Common examples of solvents include water, alcohol, and acetone. Solvents are essential in various applications, such as in chemical reactions, cleaning processes, and the formulation of products like paints and pharmaceuticals. In chemistry, the choice of solvent can significantly affect the outcome of a reaction. For instance, water is often referred to as the "universal solvent" because it can dissolve many ionic and polar substances. Understanding the properties of different solvents helps scientists and industries select the right one for their specific needs.