Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a solute?

A solute is a substance that dissolves in a solvent to form a solution, and it generally retains its identity when dissolved. The main characteristics of a solute include the fact that it is dissolved in a solvent and can affect the properties of the solution, such as its boiling point.

The notion that a solute can change phase in a solution is not typically a defining characteristic. A solute can exist in different phases (such as solid, liquid, or gas) and can also potentially change phases when manipulated (through temperature or pressure changes). However, in the context of defining a solute, the act of changing phase is not a typical or essential behavior.

In contrast, solutes are known to be capable of existing as gases, they determine the boiling point of the solution through colligative properties, and they are characterized by their ability to be dissolved by a solvent. Thus, identifying that a solute is capable of changing phase does not accurately represent a fundamental aspect of what characterizes a solute.