What+is+a+Solvent?

**What is a Solvent? **

 * I**n both industry or laboratory settings, many reactions are carried out in a liquid phase. Reacting components are dissolved in a liquid medium where the reaction is allowed to take place. 1] This liquid medium into which a solid, gas or other liquid is mixed into is called a **SOLVENT**. 2]

Solvent are one of the most widely spread classes of chemicals in everyday life and chemical industry. Not only do they exist in solutions we encounter daily (air, salt water, etc) but also play a crucial role in manufacturing and processes in chemical industry.

Using the principles of **GREEN CHEMISTRY**, solvents that reduce their impact on the environment are being considered. In some cases new solvents are being developed, but a new light is also being shone on some of the best known substances in chemistry to find new applications as greener solvents. 3]

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