What are the differences between saturated and unsaturated solutions?

Basis of differentiation

Saturated solutions

Unsaturated solutions

Definition

Contains the maximum amount of solute dissolved in the solvent at a given temperature

Contains less than the maximum amount of solute dissolved in the solvent at a given temperature

Appearance

Often appears clear and transparent

May appear clear or cloudy depending on the solute and solvent combination

Solvent Capacity

Unable to dissolve more solute without altering temperature or pressure

Potential to dissolve more solute without changing temperature or pressure

Precipitation

No visible precipitation under normal conditions

Precipitation may occur upon addition of more solute

Conductivity

Maximum conductivity due to equilibrium of ions

Lower conductivity due to fewer ions in solution

Temperature influence

Solubility affected by temperature (higher temperature dissolves more solute)

Temperature has little to no effect on solubility

Equilibrium State

Dynamic equilibrium: dissolution rate equals precipitation rate

Not in equilibrium: dissolution rate exceeds precipitation rate