This is further examined by using phase diagrams . A pure liquid contains only one substance. Most liquids dissolve other substances. The liquid is the solvent and the substance being dissolved is the solute . The resulting mixture is called a solution .
Water is an excellent solvent.
They are said to be soluble in water. Many substances do not dissolve in water. They are said to be insoluble . Oils are usually insoluble in water. When a mixture of oil and water is shaken, the result is an emulsion .