Final answer:
The statement is true; before decanting a borax solution, it is best practice to allow undissolved solids to settle to the bottom to separate undissolved particles from the saturated solution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before decanting the borax solutions from the saturated borax slurry, you should wait to allow the undissolved solid to settle to the bottom. The answer to the question is true. This process helps in separating the solid particulate matter that has not dissolved, referred to as the undissolved solid, from the liquid part of the slurry, which contains the dissolved borax. Just like when adding sand or dirt to water, the undissolved material will eventually settle at the bottom due to the sedimentation process. In a true solution, such as sugar water, the particles are completely dissolved and won't settle out; however, in a suspension with undissolved particles, settling occurs. The preparation of a solution often involves dissolving a measured amount of solute in a specific volume of solvent; only after thorough mixing and settling of undissolved particles can the clear liquid be decanted. This separation technique is essential in many chemistry practices to ensure a pure, saturated solution.