Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is a synthetic aminopolycarboxylic acid that binds many metal ions through six donor atoms, forming stable soluble complexes.

Chelation: The formation of a ring-shaped complex when a multidentate ligand binds a metal ion at multiple sites. EDTA is a classic chelator: several donor atoms bind one metal ion at once.
Water hardness: A measure of dissolved calcium and magnesium salts in water. EDTA titration is a standard way to determine total water hardness.
Aminopolycarboxylic acid: An organic compound containing amine groups and multiple carboxylic acid groups. EDTA belongs to this family of multidentate metal-binding compounds.
Nitrilotriacetic acid: An aminopolycarboxylic acid that binds metal ions through four donor atoms. It is a smaller, generally less strongly binding chelator than EDTA.
Biodegradation: The breakdown of substances by living organisms, especially microorganisms. EDTA resists biodegradation in many environments, allowing it to persist after release.
Coordination complex: A structure in which a central metal atom or ion is bonded to surrounding ligands. EDTA’s metal-binding products are coordination complexes.
Complexometric titration: A volumetric analytical method that measures metal ions by forming complexes with a titrant. EDTA is the most widely used titrant in this class of analysis.
Ligand: An ion or molecule that donates electron pairs to a central atom, commonly a metal. EDTA acts as a ligand by donating electron pairs from its nitrogen and oxygen atoms.
Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid: A synthetic aminopolycarboxylic acid with five carboxylate groups and strong metal-binding ability. DTPA offers additional binding sites and is used where stronger chelation is needed.
Phytoremediation: The use of plants to remove, stabilize, or transform contaminants in soil or water. EDTA can mobilize soil metals for plant uptake, but may also increase their leaching.

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