Supersaturation

Name:
Supersaturation
Detailed information:
The condition in which a solvent contains more dissolved matter (solute) than is present in a saturated solution of the same components at equivalent temperature. Such solutions may occur or can be made when a saturated solution cools gradually so that nucleating crystals do not form. They are extremely unstable and will precipitate upon addition of even one or two crystals of the solute or upon shaking or other slight agitation. Supersaturated solutions occur in the confectionery industry, e.g., in fudges, maple sugar, etc.