Complexation

/ˌkɒmplɛkˈseɪʃən/ noun

Definition

In chemistry, the process of forming a complex compound by combining a central metal ion with surrounding molecules or ions.

Etymology

From complex (Latin complexus, 'intertwined') + -ation suffix (Latin -atio). The term emerged in chemistry to describe the formation of coordination compounds.

Kelly Says

Complexation is how hemoglobin in your blood works—iron complexes with organic molecules to carry oxygen, and without this chemical process, you literally couldn't breathe!

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