In a solution, what is referred to as the solvent?

The correct answer is C, which defines the solvent as the substance in which the solute is dissolved. In a solution, the solvent is typically the component that is present in the greater amount compared to the solute. It serves as the medium that facilitates the dissolution process, allowing solute particles to disperse and interact with each other.

For instance, in a sugar-water solution, water acts as the solvent because it is the liquid that dissolves the sugar, which is the solute. The properties of the solution can often be attributed to the solvent, influencing characteristics like boiling point, freezing point, and solubility of different solutes.

The other answer choices describe different components and characteristics of a solution but do not accurately define the role of the solvent. The solvent is specifically the medium that hosts the solute particles, making the statement regarding its definition clear and precise.