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AAT Bioquest

What are the different types of solutions?

Posted May 29, 2024


Answer

Different types of solutions are classified based on the amount of solute dissolved in the solvent. It contains an excess of solute at a specific temperature, making it unstable. 

  • A saturated solution holds the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve in the solvent at a particular temperature. It's at equilibrium, with no more solute able to dissolve. 
  • An unsaturated solution has the capacity to dissolve more solute at a given temperature; it hasn't reached its maximum solubility yet. 

Additionally, solutions are categorized based on the solvent used. 

  • An aqueous solution forms when a solute dissolves in water. An example is sugar dissolved in water. 
  • A non-aqueous solution occurs when a solute dissolves in a solvent other than water. One example includes sulfur dissolved in carbon disulfide. 

Lastly, solutions can be classified based on the quantity of solute relative to the solvent. 

  • A concentrated solution consists of a large amount of solute dissolved in a small volume of solvent. 
  • A dilute solution contains a small amount of solute dispersed in a large volume of solvent.
Additional resources

What is a Solution?

Chemical Reagents

Solution Dilution Calculator