Chelate
Chelate
Chelate (pronunciation: /ˈkiːleɪt/) is a term used in Chemistry and Biology to describe a type of bonding of ions and molecules to metal ions. The term originates from the Greek word "chele", which means claw due to the likeness of the bonding to a claw holding onto a central atom.
Etymology
The term "chelate" was first used in 1920 by Sir Gilbert T. Morgan and H. D. K. Drew, who derived it from the Greek word "χηλή, chēlē", meaning "claw". This term was chosen to represent the manner in which a metal cation is held between the two negative ends of a molecule.
Definition
In Chemistry, a chelate is a type of coordination compound in which a central metal atom is bonded to a large molecule, often an organic compound, in a cyclic or ring structure. Chelates are often used in chemistry and biochemistry.
In Biology, chelation is the process by which a molecule encloses a metal ion to form a chelate, often to transport the ion across cell membranes or to remove the ion from the body.
Related Terms
- Chelation Therapy: A medical procedure that involves the administration of chelating agents to remove heavy metals from the body.
- Chelating Agent: A substance whose molecules can form several bonds to a single metal ion.
- Metal Ion: An ion that is a cation, formed from a metal.
- Coordination Compound: A compound with one or more ligands that are linked to a central metal atom at the core of the molecule.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chelate
- Wikipedia's article - Chelate
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