supersaturation

physics and chemistry

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July 14, 2026

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Supersaturation occurs when a solution or vapor contains more of a substance than is normally possible at a given temperature and pressure. This state is unstable, meaning it will spontaneously revert to a saturated state.

A saturated solution is one where the rate of the solute dissolving equals the rate of it crystallizing out of the solution. Similarly, a saturated vapor has an equal rate of vaporization and condensation. Supersaturation is achieved when conditions allow for a higher concentration than this equilibrium point, often by cooling a saturated solution. This condition is temporary, as the excess substance will eventually precipitate out, returning the solution to saturation.1

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crystal
Vapour growth
This state is called supersaturation. Molecules are more prone to leave the gas than to rejoin it, so they become deposited on the surface of the container. Supersaturation can be induced by maintaining the crystal at a lower temperature than the gas. A critical stage in the growth of…
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This state is called supersaturation. Molecules are more prone to leave the gas than to rejoin it, so they become deposited on the surface of the container. Supersaturation can be induced by maintaining the crystal at a lower temperature than the gas. A critical stage in the growth of…
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electrochemical reaction
Electrocrystallization
In such a situation, termed supersaturation, agglomeration of adatoms to form crystal nuclei is favored. Surface energy requirements show that, at any degree of supersaturation, nuclei of certain dimensions are stable and can represent sites for further growth.
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In such a situation, termed supersaturation, agglomeration of adatoms to form crystal nuclei is favored. Surface energy requirements show that, at any degree of supersaturation, nuclei of certain dimensions are stable and can represent sites for further growth.
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saturation
…certain circumstances, to bring about supersaturation (a state in which the concentration exceeds the equilibrium value), such solutions or vapours are unstable and spontaneously revert to the saturated state.
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…certain circumstances, to bring about supersaturation (a state in which the concentration exceeds the equilibrium value), such solutions or vapours are unstable and spontaneously revert to the saturated state.
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