In the realm of biology, a mixture where water serves as the solvent, dissolving other substances, is a fundamental concept. The resulting liquid contains water as the continuous phase and one or more solutes dispersed throughout. A familiar example includes the cytoplasm within cells, where various salts, proteins, and other molecules are dissolved in water, facilitating biochemical reactions.
The significance of this type of solution in biological systems is paramount. Its role in transporting nutrients, mediating cellular processes, and maintaining homeostasis is critical for the survival of organisms. From the earliest forms of life to complex multicellular organisms, the solvent properties of water have shaped the evolution and function of biological entities.