A solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances. Homogeneous mixture means it has uniform composition .
The component of a solution which is in the same physical state of the solution is called solvent and the component which changes its physical state when dissolved is called solute.
If both the components are in same state ,the component which is present in larger amount is called solvent and the one which is present in minor portion is called solute.
In most cases water is taken as the solvent since it can dissolve a wide range of substances. Hence water is considered as an universal solvent .
The solution in which water is taken as the solvent is called an aqueous solution.