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AAT Bioquest

How do I determine if a solution is saturated, unsaturated, or supersaturated?

Posted May 29, 2024


Answer

Simply add a small amount of solute. If additional solute is added to a solution and it completely dissolves, the solution is unsaturated. If additional solute is added to a saturated solution and it does not dissolve, the solution is saturated. If crystals quickly form around the solute added, the solution is supersaturated.

Additional resources

Solubility: Saturated, Unsaturated, and Supersaturated Solutions

Chemical Reagents

Solution Dilution Calculator