Unsaturated

Definition

An unsaturated solution is one that contains less solute than the maximum amount that can be dissolved at a given temperature. Additional solute can still be added and dissolved in an unsaturated solution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In an unsaturated solution, the solvent has not reached its capacity to dissolve more solute.
2. The concentration of a solute in an unsaturated solution is lower than its solubility limit at a specific temperature.
3. Adding more solute to an unsaturated solution will result in the dissolution of the added solute until the solution becomes saturated.
4. Unsaturated solutions are typically clear because all the solute is dissolved.
5. The state of being unsaturated depends on temperature; increasing temperature often increases the amount of solute that can be dissolved.

Review Questions

• What happens when additional solute is added to an unsaturated solution?
• How does temperature affect the saturation point of a solution?
• Describe how you can identify if a solution is unsaturated based on its appearance.

Related terms

Saturation: The point at which no more solute can dissolve in a solvent at a given temperature and pressure, resulting in a dynamic equilibrium between dissolving and precipitating.

Supersaturated: A state where a solution contains more dissolved solute than it would under normal circumstances due to changes in conditions such as cooling or evaporation.

Solubility: The maximum amount of solute that can dissolve in a given quantity of solvent at a specified temperature and pressure.