The term "universal solvent" refers to a substance that has the ability to dissolve a wide range of solutes. Water is the most well-known example of a universal solvent, but there are other substances that possess similar properties. Ammonia is often referred to as a "universal base," due to its ability to dissolve acids as well as other solutes. Similarly, sulfuric acid is known as a "universal acid" because of its ability to dissolve practically any substance that is not a metal, including organic and inorganic materials. In addition, ethanol and methanol both have the capacity to dissolve a diverse range of compounds, making them potential candidates for the status of a "universal solvent".