An aqueous solution is a mixture where water is the solvent, meaning it dissolves other substances, called solutes. Common examples of solutes include salts, sugars, and acids. When these substances dissolve, they break down into smaller particles, allowing them to spread evenly throughout the water. Aqueous solutions are important in many scientific and everyday processes. For instance, in chemistry, reactions often occur in aqueous solutions, as the water helps facilitate the movement of particles. Additionally, in biology, many cellular processes depend on aqueous solutions to transport nutrients and waste products within living organisms.