Humber Admissions Practice Test

What does it mean for a solution to be supersaturated?

1. A solution that evaporates quickly

2. A solution containing maximum solute under any conditions

3. A solution that allows more solute to be dissolved due to increased temperature and pressure

4. A solution that is at the freezing point

The correct answer is: A solution that allows more solute to be dissolved due to increased temperature and pressure

A supersaturated solution is defined as a solution that contains more solute than can typically be dissolved at a given temperature and pressure. This condition can occur when a solution is initially heated to dissolve more solute than it would normally hold at a cooler temperature. As the solution cools without any solid solute forming, it becomes supersaturated because it retains that excess solute in solution, despite being beyond the typical saturation point. In this context, the correct answer emphasizes the ability of a solution to hold more solute due to increased temperature and pressure, which defines the process of creating a supersaturated solution. When temperature increases, solubility generally increases, allowing more solute to dissolve. If pressure is also increased, particularly in the case of gases, it further enables more solute to remain dissolved in the solution. The other choices do not accurately describe a supersaturated solution. A solution that evaporates quickly pertains to its volatility, not solubility. A solution containing maximum solute under any conditions describes a saturated solution rather than a supersaturated one. Lastly, a solution that is at the freezing point does not relate to the concept of saturation and solute solubility.