Question

What is the difference between a saturated solution and a supersaturated solution?

Short answer

A saturated solution contains the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved at a certain temperature, whereas a supersaturated solution contains more solute than what can typically be dissolved at the same temperature, achieved by first dissolving the solute in a heated solvent and then cooling the solution.

Step-by-step solution

Define a Saturated Solution

A saturated solution refers to a solution that contains the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved at a specific temperature. In simple terms, it's a solution in which no more solute can be dissolved at the current temperature.

Define a Supersaturated Solution

A supersaturated solution, on the other hand, contains more solute than can be dissolved at the current temperature. Such a condition is achieved by first dissolving the solute in heated solvent and then slowly cooling the solution.

Highlight the Difference

The main difference between a saturated solution and a supersaturated solution lies in the amount of solute that they contain. While a saturated solution holds the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved at a specific temperature, a supersaturated solution holds more solute than can be dissolved at the same temperature. This surplus solute in a supersaturated solution can usually start to crystallize out if the solution is disturbed.