Final answer:
When a supersaturated solution is disturbed, the excess solute will precipitate out as the solution crystallizes. This occurs because the solution is unstable, containing more solute than can remain in solution at that temperature.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a supersaturated solution is disturbed, such as by dropping in a seed crystal or mechanically agitating the solution, precipitation will usually occur. A supersaturated solution is unstable because it contains more solute than can be dissolved by the solvent at the given temperature.
As a result, when the solution is disturbed, the excess solute crystallizes out, forming a precipitate, and sometimes leaving behind any impurities dissolved in the solution. This is part of a process known as re-crystallization, which is frequently used to purify solutes.
The temperature dependence of solubility plays a key role in creating supersaturated solutions, as solutes are more soluble at higher temperatures, and this solubility decreases as the solution is cooled.