Question

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 solid Nacl to an already saturated solution of NaCl, that solid remains in equilibrium with dissolved Naci. Solution containing less solute than would be in the saturated solution, is UNSATURATED solution. One can add certain amount of solute, & that amount will be dissolved. Solution, containing more solute than in a saturated solution, is called SUPERSATURATED solution. How such a solution can exist? In order to answer this question, in the next slide consider the effect of temperature on solubility of various substances in water.