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MENTAL MODEL · M4402

Supersaturation

Supersaturation
BehaviorHigh supportSocial Psychology
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-28

CORE DEFINITION

Supersaturation refers to the phenomenon where a solution contains more solute than the saturation amount at the current temperature and pressure, yet remains in existence (unstable). This solution is called a supersaturated solution. Supersaturation can also refer to the phenomenon where the vapor pressure of a substance in a vapor exceeds the saturation vapor pressure at that temperature and pressure without undergoing a phase change. This vapor is called supersaturated vapor. A supersaturated solution can form when a saturated solution at high temperature is cooled or when a gas solution under high pressure is depressurized. The ease of formation depends on the properties of the solute and solvent. A supersaturated system is in a thermodynamically metastable state; when external conditions change or after prolonged standing, a phase transition occurs, transforming it into a saturated solution and free solute. The stability of supersaturated solutions varies among substances. Stirring, shaking, adding seed crystals or impurities can accelerate this process.

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Supersaturation refers to the phenomenon where a solution contains more solute than the saturation amount at the current temperature and pressure, yet remains in existence (unstable). This solution is called a supersaturated solution. Supersaturation can also refer to the phenomenon where the vapor pressure of a substance in a vapor exceeds the saturation vapor pressure at that temperature and pressure without undergoing a phase change. This vapor is called supersaturated vapor. A supersaturated solution can form when a saturated solution at high temperature is cooled or when a gas solution under high pressure is depressurized. The ease of formation depends on the properties of the solute and solvent.

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The solute concentration in the solution exceeds the equilibrium solubility but does not precipitate for the time being, remaining in a metastable state; once a seed crystal is introduced or disturbance occurs, the system rapidly crystallizes and releases stored energy, returning to a stable state.

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Source support: Explicit

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