A solenoid valve is an electromechanical device used to control the flow of liquids or gases in a system. It uses an electric current to generate a magnetic field, which moves a plunger inside the valve to open or close it. This allows or stops the flow of the substance. Solenoid valves are commonly used in various applications such as water systems, pneumatic controls, HVAC systems, and industrial machinery, where automatic and precise control of fluid flow is needed.