# Solution --- A **solution** a [[mixture|homogeneous mixture]] of two or more [[substance|substances]]. The minor component (or the one mixed *into* the major component) is the **solute**, and the major component (or the one that has dissolved the minor component) is the **solvent**. [[Water]] is considered the *universal solvent* owing to it's ability to dissolve so many different substances. The characteristics of a solution are: - Is a [[matter|homogeneous mixture]] (i.e. lacks a [[concentration gradient]]) - particles of solute cannot be seen with the naked eye - is stable (i.e. non-[[chemical reaction|reactive]]) - cannot be separated by [[passive transport|filtration]] ## Electrolytes & Nonelectrolytes **[[Electrolytes]]** are a special type of solute that are [[ionic bond|ionicly bound]] or [[covalent bond|polar covalent]] and dissolve by completely disassociating in water. Non-electrolytes may dissolve into solution, but they remain intact. ___