Solvent as a noun is widely used in science to describe a substance that dissolves others. In the experiment, the solvent quickly dissolved the colored powder.
Pro Tip 2/3
Type Matters
Different solvents are used depending on the substance you need to dissolve. Oil-based paint requires a strong solvent for cleanup.
Pro Tip 3/3
Solubility Limits
Even good solvents have limits on how much they can dissolve before becoming saturated. Salt can dissolve in water, but only until the water becomes saturated.