Have you ever watched something dissolve in water? Why is water referred to as the universal solvent? Can you think of an instance when you observed this characteristic?
Discuss how the dipolar nature of the water molecule makes it such an effective solvent of ionic compounds. Be sure to include a discussion of ions and ionic bonding. In light of this, can you explain why things like oil or grease will not dissolve in water? Answer in 75-100 words.