Which component of a solution is capable of dissolving other substances?

The component of a solution that is capable of dissolving other substances is the solvent. In a solution, the solvent is the medium, typically a liquid, in which the solute (the substance that is being dissolved) is dispersed. Common examples of solvents include water, alcohol, and various organic compounds.

For instance, when table salt (the solute) is added to water (the solvent), the water molecules surround the salt ions, breaking them apart and distributing them evenly throughout the liquid, which results in a homogeneous mixture known as a solution.

This ability to dissolve substances is crucial in many biological processes, as it allows for the transport of nutrients and waste within cells and organisms. Thus, understanding the role of solvents helps to grasp concepts related to solution chemistry and the interactions of different substances in biological contexts.