What characterizes a saturated solution?

A saturated solution is defined as one that has dissolved the maximum amount of solute possible at a specific temperature. At this point, the rate at which the solute dissolves is equal to the rate at which it precipitates out of the solution. This dynamic equilibrium means that any additional solute added will not dissolve and will instead remain as a solid or separate phase in the mixture.

This concept is fundamental in understanding solubility limits and how temperature and pressure can influence the amount of solute that can be dissolved in a solvent. As the temperature increases, for many solutes, solubility also increases, allowing more solute to be added before reaching saturation. Thus, option C accurately captures the essence of what a saturated solution is, highlighting the relationship between the solute and solvent at equilibrium.