Which of the following best describes a saturated solution?

• A. A solution that can still dissolve more solute at the same temperature.
• B. A solution in which no solute has been dissolved.
• C. A solution that contains the maximum amount of dissolved solute at a given temperature, with undissolved solute present.
• D. A solution that contains less solute than the maximum amount possible at a given temperature.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of solubility: Solubility is the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve in a solvent at a specific temperature to form a stable solution.
2. Define a saturated solution: It is a solution that contains the maximum amount of dissolved solute at a given temperature, meaning no more solute can dissolve under those conditions.
3. Recognize that in a saturated solution, any additional solute added will remain undissolved because the solution has reached its solubility limit.
4. Contrast this with unsaturated solutions, which can dissolve more solute, and supersaturated solutions, which temporarily contain more solute than the saturation point but are unstable.
5. Therefore, the best description of a saturated solution is one that contains the maximum amount of dissolved solute at a given temperature, with undissolved solute present.