Solvents are essential for many industries, acting as carriers, cleaners, and mediums for chemical reactions. They are generally classified as polar (like water) or non-polar (like oil) :-

1. Polar Solvents (Inorganic & Organic)

• •  Water : The “universal solvent,” used for dissolving polar or ionic substances.
    • Uses: Cleaning, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and biological processes.
  • Alcohols (Ethanol, Methanol, Isopropanol): Used in products that need to evaporate quickly.
    • Uses: Perfumes, sanitizers, pharmaceuticals, paint, and varnish.
  • Ketones (Acetone, Methyl Ethyl Ketone – MEK): Strong, volatile solvents used to dissolve plastics and synthetic fibers.
    • Uses: Nail polish remover, paint stripping, and cleaning degreasers

2. Non-Polar Solvents

• • Hydrocarbons (Hexane, Heptane, Benzene, Toluene): Excellent at dissolving non-polar substances like oil, fat, and wax.
    • Uses: Oil extraction (e.g., soy oil), industrial degreasing, rubber production, and paint thinners.
  • Halogenated Solvents (Chloroform, Methylene Chloride, Perchloroethylene): Contain halogens (chlorine, fluorine, etc.) and are generally non-flammable.
    • Uses: Dry cleaning, precision electronics cleaning, and paint stripping.

3. Specialty/Other Solvents

• • Ethers (Diethyl Ether, Tetrahydrofuran – THF): Used as reaction solvents in laboratories.
  • Esters (Ethyl Acetate): Known for fruity odors, used in coatings.
    • Uses: Nail polish remover, fragrance mixing, and decaffeination