A

David

Darling

solute

A solute is a gaseous, liquid, or solid substance that is dissolved in a solvent to form a solution. Ionic solids, such as common salt, and sugars and starch dissolve in water. Liquids can dissolve in liquids; for example, ethanol and water are miscible – capable of mixing – in all proportions at room temperature. Some gases, such as hydrogen chloride (HCl), are soluble in water.