Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A saturated solution is one in which no more solute can be dissolved at a given temperature and pressure.
Related terms
Unsaturated Solution: This is when less than the maximum amount of solute has been dissolved in a solution. It's like an under-booked concert - there's still plenty of room for more attendees!
This refers to the ability of a substance to dissolve in another substance. It’s like how popular or well-known the band playing at the concert is - if they're very popular, they'll attract more fans (dissolve more solute).
When a solution becomes supersaturated, any extra solute will form solid particles that fall out of solution, known as precipitate. It’s like if too many people show up for the concert and some are forced to leave, creating a crowd outside.