Which of the following best describes how a solution becomes saturated?

• A. When all of the solute has dissolved and the solution is clear.
• B. When no more solute can dissolve in the solvent at a given temperature and excess solute remains undissolved.
• C. When the solute and solvent are mixed in equal proportions.
• D. When the solvent evaporates completely, leaving only solute behind.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of saturation in solutions: A solution is saturated when it contains the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve in the solvent at a specific temperature.
2. Recognize that saturation is a dynamic equilibrium where the rate of solute dissolving equals the rate of solute crystallizing or precipitating out.
3. Note that when a solution is saturated, adding more solute will not increase the amount dissolved; instead, the excess solute remains undissolved in the solution.
4. Identify that a clear solution with all solute dissolved is unsaturated, and equal proportions of solute and solvent do not necessarily mean saturation.
5. Conclude that saturation is best described as the point where no more solute can dissolve at a given temperature, and excess solute remains undissolved.