what happens when a small particle of solute is added to a saturated solution. explain

When a small particle of solute is added to a saturated solution, the following steps occur:

1. Addition of Solute: The solute particle is introduced into the saturated solution. A saturated solution is a solution that contains the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved at a given temperature.

2. Attempt to Dissolve: The solute particle will attempt to dissolve in the solution. However, because the solution is already saturated, it cannot accommodate more solute.

3. Equilibrium: In a dynamic equilibrium, some solute particles from the solution may deposit or precipitate out, and the added solute particle may partially dissolve. This means that the rate of dissolution of the solute equals the rate of precipitation.

4. Excess Solute: If the added solute particle is larger than the amount that can be accommodated by the dynamic equilibrium, the excess solute will remain undissolved in the solution, often settling at the bottom of the container.

In summary, when a solute is added to a saturated solution, it will either remain undissolved or only partially dissolve, depending on the dynamic equilibrium of the solution.