Chelating agents are chemical compounds that can bind to metal ions, forming stable complexes. This process, known as chelation, helps to remove excess metals from the body or environment. Chelating agents are commonly used in medicine to treat heavy metal poisoning, such as lead or mercury, by facilitating their excretion. In addition to medical applications, chelating agents are also used in various industries, including agriculture and water treatment. They help improve nutrient availability in fertilizers and prevent metal contamination in industrial processes. Overall, chelating agents play a crucial role in both health and environmental management.