Question #bf1f5

1 Answer
Dec 11, 2014

There are basically three types of solutions: unsaturated, saturated, and supersaturated.

So, an unsaturated solution is a solution that is capable of dissolving more solute. In such a solution, all the solute present is dissolved - no chunks of undissolved particles can be seen.

A saturated solution is no longer capable of dissolving added solute; this means that, from this point on, any added solute will become visible in the solvent as chunks of undissolved particles. A saturated solution has no undissolved particles, just like an unsaturated one, but no more solute can be dissolved from this point on.There is a dynamic equilibrium between the dissolving and the re-crystalization of the solute.

A supersaturated solution is made by adding more solute to a saturated solution. From this point on, undissolved solute particles wiil be visible in the solution. A solution becomes supersaturated if it contains more solute than it is capable of dissolving at a particular temperature and volume.

Here's an example of a supersaturated solution