Meaning & use
chelate
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to bind a metal ion with a molecule to form a stable ring-shaped chemical complex.
See it in a sentence
The compound chelates iron, making it easier for the body to absorb.
Certain detergents chelate calcium and magnesium ions to prevent hard-water buildup.
A note on using this word
A specialized chemistry term; the resulting compound itself is called a chelate as a noun.
Words with a similar meaning
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Another way to use it
2. noun
a chemical compound formed when a metal ion is bound by a molecule at two or more points.
EDTA is a well-known chelate used in medicine and industry.
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