Solution Composition

Solutions are made up of two distinct parts: the solute and the solvent. The solvent is whatever part is present in the largest quantity. The solute is whatever is dissolved into the solvent. Here are some examples of how to identify which is which in a solution:

-Chlorine tablets in a swimming pool: 

Solute: tablets

Solvent: H20

-Sugar and kool-aid mix in water:

Solute: sugar and kool-aid

Solvent: H20

-Cigarette smoke in air:

Solute: smoke particles

Solvent: air

-Sodium chloride in water:

Solute: NaCl

Solvent: H20

There is a limit to how much solute can be dissolved into any solvent. The solution can either be unsaturated, saturated, or supersaturated. Most solvents hold more solute at higher temperatures.