In the context of solution saturation, a supersaturated solution is defined as?

A supersaturated solution is characterized by containing more solute than is typically soluble at a given temperature and pressure. This occurs when a solution is prepared by dissolving solute at a high temperature and then gradually cooling it without allowing any solute to crystallize out. In this state, the solution has exceeded its saturation point, meaning that it holds more solute than would normally be possible under equilibrium conditions.

In this context, the other options do not accurately describe a supersaturated solution. A solution that contains less solute than the saturation point is classified as unsaturated. When a solution contains precisely the saturation amount of solute, it is described as saturated but not supersaturated. A solution that has reached boiling point does not inherently relate to saturation and can contain varying amounts of solute, depending on its saturation status. Thus, the defining characteristic of a supersaturated solution is that it holds an excess of solute, making option C the correct choice.