What is the term for a substance that dissolves another substance?

The term for a substance that dissolves another substance is "solvent." In the context of solutions, a solvent is the component that is present in the greatest amount, which dissolves the solute to form a homogeneous mixture. For example, in a saltwater solution, water acts as the solvent, dissolving the salt (the solute).

Understanding the role of a solvent is crucial in various applications, including creating solutions in nail care products, where the right solvent can affect the efficacy and behavior of the product on the nails. Knowing how solvents work helps nail technicians choose the appropriate products for clients' needs, ensuring safe and effective treatments.

Other terms related to this concept include "solute," which is the substance that is dissolved, "suspension," which refers to a mixture where particles are dispersed throughout a fluid but not dissolved, and "solution," which is the final product formed when a solute is dissolved in a solvent. However, in this question, "solvent" is the specific term that describes the dissolving agent, making it the correct choice.