A solution that contains more solute than it can normally hold at a given temperature is known as a super saturated solution. This state occurs when a solution is heated and more solute is dissolved than would be possible at room temperature. Upon cooling, the solution is in a super saturated state until the excess solute precipitates out.
- Super saturated solution: Contains more solute than a saturated solution at the same temperature. It is unstable and can precipitate the solute upon slight disturbance or the addition of a seed crystal.
- Unsaturated solution: Can dissolve more solute at the given temperature. It is not yet at equilibrium.
- Colloidal solution: A mixture where one substance is dispersed evenly throughout another at the microscopic level. Colloids do not involve extra solute beyond saturation.
- Suspension: A heterogeneous mixture where solute particles do not dissolve but remain suspended, which can eventually settle with time.
Hence, a solution with more solute than the saturated solution at the same temperature is categorized as a super saturated solution.