Question

why is water considered to be a \universal solvent\?
it can dissolve many things. it is mostly gaseous.
it is oil - based. it boils at 100 degrees c.

Explanation:

To determine why water is a "universal solvent", we analyze each option:

• "It can dissolve many things" aligns with the definition of a universal solvent (a substance that dissolves a wide range of solutes).
• "It is mostly gaseous" is incorrect (water is liquid at room temp).
• "It is oil - based" is wrong (water is polar, oil is non - polar and they don't mix).
• "It boils at 100 degrees C" is a property of water but not related to its solvent ability.

Answer:

A. It can dissolve many things