Which of the following best describes a saturated solution?

Which of the following best describes a saturated solution?

• A. It can dissolve more solute.
• B. It contains the maximum amount of solute at a given temperature.
• C. It has no solute dissolved.
• D. It is completely solid at room temperature.

Answer: (B)

A saturated solution is characterized by containing the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved in a solvent at a specific temperature. This means that any additional solute added beyond this point will not dissolve and will remain undissolved in the solution. In the context of this question, the correct choice clearly defines what a saturated solution is and reflects the equilibrium state between the solute and the solvent. It emphasizes the limitation of solubility based on temperature, which is a critical concept in chemistry. Other options do not accurately represent a saturated solution. For example, a statement that it can dissolve more solute contradicts the definition of saturation, as this implies that the solution has not yet reached its maximum solute capacity. Notably, claiming that it has no solute dissolved is fundamentally incorrect, as a saturated solution must contain solute. Lastly, stating that a saturated solution is completely solid disregards the nature of solutions, which must be liquid in form.

A saturated solution is characterized by containing the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved in a solvent at a specific temperature. This means that any additional solute added beyond this point will not dissolve and will remain undissolved in the solution.

In the context of this question, the correct choice clearly defines what a saturated solution is and reflects the equilibrium state between the solute and the solvent. It emphasizes the limitation of solubility based on temperature, which is a critical concept in chemistry.

Other options do not accurately represent a saturated solution. For example, a statement that it can dissolve more solute contradicts the definition of saturation, as this implies that the solution has not yet reached its maximum solute capacity. Notably, claiming that it has no solute dissolved is fundamentally incorrect, as a saturated solution must contain solute. Lastly, stating that a saturated solution is completely solid disregards the nature of solutions, which must be liquid in form.