Which statement best describes the difference between a saturated solution and an unsaturated solution?

• A. A saturated solution contains the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve at a given temperature, while an unsaturated solution contains less than the maximum amount of dissolved solute.
• B. A saturated solution is always more concentrated than an unsaturated solution, regardless of temperature.
• C. A saturated solution contains only solvent, while an unsaturated solution contains only solute.
• D. A saturated solution can dissolve more solute, while an unsaturated solution cannot dissolve any more solute.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of solubility, which is the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve in a solvent at a specific temperature to form a stable solution.
2. Step 2: Define a saturated solution as one that contains the maximum amount of dissolved solute possible at a given temperature, meaning no more solute can dissolve under those conditions.
3. Step 3: Define an unsaturated solution as one that contains less solute than the maximum amount that can dissolve at that temperature, so more solute can still be dissolved.
4. Step 4: Recognize that the key difference lies in whether the solution has reached the solubility limit (saturated) or not (unsaturated), rather than simply the concentration or the presence of solute or solvent alone.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description is that a saturated solution contains the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve at a given temperature, while an unsaturated solution contains less than that maximum amount.