Precipitation Condition

$$\text{Ionic Product (IP)} > K_{sp}$$

Application Framework: Compares the instantaneous ion concentrations against the dynamic equilibrium value.

• If $$\text{IP} > K_{sp}$$ : Solution is supersaturated; Precipitation occurs.
• If $$\text{IP} = K_{sp}$$ : Solution is saturated; Equilibrium exists.
• If $$\text{IP} < K_{sp}$$ : Solution is unsaturated; No precipitation occurs.

Notation:

• $$\text{IP}$$ = Ionic product;
• $$K_{sp}$$ = Solubility product constant.