Solutions are categorized into aqueous and non-aqueous solutions based on the nature of the solvent. In chemistry:
- Aqueous solutions involve water as the solvent. Water's unique properties make it a universal solvent, capable of dissolving a wide range of substances.
- Non-aqueous solutions, on the other hand, involve solvents other than water. These solvents can dissolve substances that are not soluble in water and are crucial in processes where water's properties are unsuitable.
Understanding the nature of the solvent is essential to determine the type of solution, as it directly influences the solution’s properties such as solubility, conductivity, and reactivity.