Complexing

/kəmˈplɛksɪŋ/ verb

Definition

The process of forming a complex, especially in chemistry when molecules combine to create a new compound.

Etymology

From 'complex' (Latin complexus, 'woven together') plus the gerund suffix '-ing'. The term became prominent in chemistry during the 19th century to describe molecular interactions.

Kelly Says

In chemistry, complexing is how metal ions get wrapped up like presents by other molecules called ligands—this is how your body keeps iron stable in blood hemoglobin!

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