What is the term for the substance that dissolves a solute in a solution?

The correct term for the substance that dissolves a solute in a solution is "solvent." In a solution, the solvent is the component that is present in the greater amount and acts to dissolve the solute, which is the substance being dissolved.

In the context of cosmetology, understanding the role of solvents is essential because many beauty products, such as lotions, creams, and hair treatments, rely on solvents to effectively combine various ingredients. For example, water is a common solvent used in many formulations due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances, making it an integral part of many cosmetic products.

The other options, such as solute, emulsifier, and binder, pertain to different roles in formulations. A solute is the substance that is dissolved by the solvent. An emulsifier helps to mix two immiscible liquids, such as oil and water, by reducing the surface tension between them. A binder serves to hold together various components within a formulation. Hence, recognizing the specific functions of these terms enhances understanding of product formulation and application in a cosmetology context.