A solvent is a substance, usually a liquid, that dissolves a solute, resulting in a solution. Common examples of solvents include water, ethanol, and acetone. Solvents are essential in various applications, such as in the production of paints, pharmaceuticals, and cleaning products. They help to dissolve other substances, making them easier to work with. In chemistry, solvents can be classified as polar or nonpolar based on their molecular structure. Polar solvents, like water, have molecules that can form hydrogen bonds, while nonpolar solvents, like hexane, do not. The choice of solvent is crucial in chemical reactions and processes, as it can affect the solubility and reactivity of the substances involved.