Question

Explain the meaning of the term: Saturated solution

Answer 1

We know that saturation is basically a condition where existence of equilibrium takes place between any pair of opposing forces or of an exact balance of the rates of opposing processes. The saturation state is achieved when there is no more capacity to dissolve a solute in the solution.

Complete answer:
As we know that a saturated solution is where equilibrium has been established between the reactant and product and there is no more chance of adding and dissolving solute in the solution. If more solute is added to the solution, it will result in a solid precipitate. A saturated solution can be prepared by continuous addition of solute into a solution until a stage is reached where no more solute can be added to the solution. For instance: carbonated water is a saturated solution.
An unsaturated solution is the one which is not in equilibrium and thus more solute can be added to the solution to reach equilibrium position or saturation. For instance: sodium chloride in water is an unsaturated solution. A saturated solution cannot dissolve more of the solute at a given temperature. Saturated solutions are the solutions in which no more solute is added at a particular given temperature.

Additional information:
Always remember that a solution is generally a mixture of solute and solvent. The saturated solution is a type of solution in which no more solute is added at a particular given temperature. The unsaturated solutions are the solutions in which more solute is added at a particular given temperature.

Note:
Remember that saturation of a solution depends on the temperature, pressure and concentration. So, when temperature is increased, the solubility of ionic solution also increases and the amount of solute corresponds to the rate of crystallization. An important example of a saturated solution is carbonated water.