Which of the following is a characteristic of a saturated solution?

A saturated solution is one that has dissolved the maximum amount of solute possible at a given temperature and pressure. This means any additional solute added will not dissolve and will remain undissolved in the mixture. Understanding this definition helps clarify why the answer regarding having reached its maximum solute capacity is correct.

In a saturated solution, the balance between the solute and the solvent has been achieved, and equilibrium exists—meaning that the rate of solute dissolving is equal to the rate of solute crystallizing out of the solution. This is a critical concept in chemistry, as it is foundational in understanding solutions and solubility, as well as how various factors can influence the saturation point, such as temperature.

The other options do not accurately describe a saturated solution. A solution containing no solute is simply a solvent, while a saturated solution does contain solute. Additionally, a saturated solution can be clear or colored, depending on the solute; therefore, clarity and color cannot be general characteristics of all saturated solutions. Lastly, containing less solute than possible describes an unsaturated solution, not a saturated one.