Which type of solution occurs when no more solute can be dissolved, and it sinks to the bottom?

A saturated solution occurs when the maximum amount of solute has been dissolved in a solvent at a given temperature and pressure. When any additional solute is added beyond this point, it will not dissolve and will instead settle at the bottom of the container. This is a defining characteristic of saturated solutions, as they reach an equilibrium where the rate of dissolution of the solute equals the rate of crystallization, resulting in a stable concentration of solute in the solvent.

In contrast, a supersaturated solution involves a scenario where more solute is dissolved than what would normally be possible at that temperature, typically achieved by heating the solution and then cooling it slowly, allowing the excess solute to remain in solution temporarily. An unsaturated solution is one in which less solute is present than can be dissolved, meaning that additional solute can still dissolve in the solvent. A concentrated solution indicates a high amount of solute relative to the solvent but doesn't specify the saturation level, as it can be saturated, unsaturated, or supersaturated depending on circumstances.