A solution which contains more of the solute than it can hold under ordinary conditions is known as?

A solution that contains more solute than it can normally dissolve at a given temperature and pressure is referred to as supersaturated. In a supersaturated solution, the solute is present in higher concentrations than in a saturated solution, which is at equilibrium with the undissolved solute. This situation occurs when a solution is prepared under elevated conditions, such as increased temperature, and then allowed to cool, causing the solute to remain in solution despite exceeding the usual solubility limits.

The unique characteristic of a supersaturated solution is its instability; if disturbed, solute crystals may precipitate out of the solution, returning to a more stable state. This behavior distinguishes supersaturated solutions from saturated ones, where the solution contains the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved under normal conditions without any excess present. Therefore, identifying a solution as supersaturated highlights the extraordinary circumstances under which it exists, demonstrating a key concept in chemistry related to solubility.