Humber Admissions Practice Test

What is an unsaturated solution?

1. A solution that cannot dissolve any more solute

2. A solution that contains more solute than solvent

3. A solution that contains less solute than a saturated solution does and is able to dissolve additional solute

4. A solution that is completely full of solute

The correct answer is: A solution that contains less solute than a saturated solution does and is able to dissolve additional solute

An unsaturated solution is defined as a solution that contains less solute than a saturated solution and is capable of dissolving additional solute. This means there is still space within the solvent to incorporate more particles of solute, which distinguishes it from a saturated solution where no more solute can be dissolved at a given temperature and pressure. In the context of solutions, when a substance (the solute) is added to a solvent, it may not always completely dissolve. An unsaturated solution indicates that the solute concentration is below the maximum limit at which no additional solute will dissolve. Therefore, if more solute is introduced, it has the potential to dissolve until the solution reaches saturation. In contrast, other definitions such as a solution that cannot dissolve any more solute, one that contains more solute than solvent, or one that is completely full of solute describes either saturated solutions or scenarios that don't accurately reflect the properties of unsaturated solutions. Thus, the correct definition captures the essence of unsaturation in the context of solubility and solution chemistry.