The term used to describe a solution that contains more solute than it can dissolve is supersaturated solution. In a supersaturated solution, the concentration of solute exceeds its equilibrium solubility at a given temperature. This condition can occur when a solution is prepared at high temperatures and then slowly cooled, allowing for the solute to remain dissolved despite exceeding the saturation point. Supersaturated solutions are unstable; any disturbance or introduction of a seed crystal can initiate crystallization, leading to the excess solute precipitating out of the solution.