Why can a supersaturated state sometimes form when a hot saturated solution is cooled suddenly?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Solute may not separate immediately and extra amount remains dissolved
A hot saturated solution can contain more dissolved solute than would be stable at the lower temperature. If cooling is rapid, nucleation and crystal growth may not occur immediately, so the excess solute remains temporarily dissolved. This metastable state is called supersaturation. A disturbance or seed crystal can then trigger crystallization; the solvent does not become metal and the solute does not all become gas.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Solute may not separate immediately and extra amount remains dissolved
Why is this the correct answer?
A hot saturated solution can contain more dissolved solute than would be stable at the lower temperature. If cooling is rapid, nucleation and crystal growth may not occur immediately, so the excess solute remains temporarily dissolved. This metastable state is called supersaturation. A disturbance or seed crystal can then trigger crystallization; the solvent does not become metal and the solute does not all become gas.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 11 Chemistry question. Chapter: Chapter 01: Solutions.
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