Question

What happens when a saturated solution is cooled?
A. It becomes unsaturated
B. It remains unaffected
C. It becomes supersaturated
D. It becomes transparent.

Answer 1

The solubility is property of solute to dissolve in the solution. The saturated solution is defined as the solution where no more solute can be added to the solution. The solubility is directly proportional to the temperature.

Complete step by step answer:
The saturated solution is defined as the solution which can dissolve a maximum amount of solutes in the condition in which solution can exist.
The solution reaches an equilibrium state when no more solute should be added to the solution, and if more solute is added white precipitate is formed and gas is released. The resulting solution is known as saturated solution.
The property by which the amount of solute dissolves in the saturated solution is known as solubility.
The saturation of the solution is divided into three types of solution.
(1) Saturated solution
(2) Unsaturated solution
(3) Supersaturated solution
A saturated solution is in equilibrium with the dissolved substance.
An unsaturated solution is not in the equilibrium with the dissolved substance and more solute can be added.
A supersaturated solution contains more dissolved solute as compared to saturated solution.
The solubility of the solute is directly proportional to the temperature.
When temperature is decreased, the solubility of the solute is decreased.
On decreasing the temperature, the saturated solution becomes a supersaturated solution.
Therefore, the correct option is C.

Note:
The equilibrium response of the system is predicted by Le Chatelier’s principle which is dependent on the change in concentration, change in the pressure and change in temperature.