Which term is used to describe the dissolved substance in a solution?

The term that describes the dissolved substance in a solution is "solute." In a solution, the solute is the substance that is present in a lesser amount and is dissolved in the solvent, which is the substance present in a greater amount. For instance, in a saltwater solution, salt is the solute as it dissolves in water, the solvent.

Understanding the roles of solute and solvent is crucial in chemistry because it helps to define the properties and behavior of solutions. Solutions can vary widely in their concentrations of solute and solvent, affecting properties such as boiling point, freezing point, and conductivity. The other terms provided do not accurately define the dissolved substance; for example, the solvent is the medium in which the solute is dissolved, while "solution" refers to the homogeneous mixture formed by the solute and solvent combined. "Solvent mixture" is not a standard term used in this context and could lead to confusion. Thus, identifying the solute is essential for understanding solution chemistry.