What do you call a mixture containing a solvent and at least one solute?

A mixture containing a solvent and at least one solute is called a solution. In a solution, the solvent, which is typically a liquid, dissolves the solute, resulting in a homogeneous mixture. The solute can be a solid, liquid, or gas that is uniformly distributed within the solvent.

Solutions are characterized by the fact that they are stable and do not separate upon standing. The components of a solution cannot be distinguished from one another with the naked eye, meaning that the solute particles are evenly dispersed throughout the solvent at a molecular or ionic level.

In contrast, other terms like colloid, emulsion, and suspension refer to different types of mixtures with distinct properties. A colloid contains particles that are larger than those in a solution but remain dispersed and do not settle out. An emulsion is a specific type of colloid where two immiscible liquids are mixed, such as oil and water. A suspension contains larger particles that may eventually settle out when left undisturbed. Therefore, the correct and specific term for the mixture described in the question is indeed a solution.