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Definition

noun, plural: chelates

(chemistry) A complex formed through chelation.

‘’adjective’’

(chemistry)

(1) Of or pertaining to chelation.

(2) Of or pertaining to a compound having a cyclic structure as a result of the formation of one or more hydrogen bonds in the same molecule.

(3) Of, or pertaining, to a heterocyclic compound with a central metallic ion attached to two or more nonmetallic ions through covalent bonds in the same molecule.

(zoology) Having or resembling a chela or chelae.

‘’verb’’

(chemistry) To combine a metallic ion with a chemical compound to form a ring.

(medicine) To remove a heavy metal from the bloodstream by means of chelation.

Supplement

Word origin: from Greek chele, meaning claw.

Related terms:

• chelation
• chelating agent