Saturated, Unsaturated & Supersaturated Solutions
Solution, in which the concentration of solute is that determined by its solubility (at given temperature) is called SATURATED solution. One cannot add more solute to such a solution. We also say that a saturated solution is in equilibrium with pure solute: If we add
The correct answer and explanation is :
Correct Completion of the Statement:
If we add more solute, it will not dissolve and will remain undissolved at the bottom, indicating the solution is saturated.
Explanation (300+ words):
In chemistry, a solution is a homogeneous mixture composed of a solute (the substance being dissolved) and a solvent (the substance doing the dissolving, typically a liquid like water). Solutions can be categorized based on how much solute is dissolved in the solvent relative to its solubility—a measure of how much solute can dissolve in a solvent at a specific temperature.
1. Saturated Solution:
A saturated solution contains the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve in the solvent at a particular temperature and pressure. When a solution reaches this point, it is in dynamic equilibrium with the undissolved solute. This means the rate at which the solute dissolves equals the rate at which it precipitates back out. If more solute is added to a saturated solution, it will not dissolve and will remain undissolved, typically settling at the bottom of the container. This is because the solution has reached its solubility limit.
2. Unsaturated Solution:
An unsaturated solution has less solute than what the solvent can dissolve at a given temperature. In this case, if more solute is added, it will dissolve until the solution becomes saturated. These solutions are considered “below equilibrium.”
3. Supersaturated Solution:
A supersaturated solution is a metastable state where the solution holds more solute than it should be able to at that temperature. This is typically achieved by dissolving the solute at a higher temperature and then slowly cooling the solution. Supersaturated solutions are unstable, and the excess solute can rapidly precipitate out if disturbed.
Summary:
The key idea is that a saturated solution has reached its limit of solubility, and any added solute will not dissolve. This equilibrium state is important in many natural and industrial processes, including crystal formation and chemical reactions.