An iron chelator is a compound that binds to iron ions in solution, forming a stable complex. This process is known as chelation. Iron chelators are used in various applications, including:

1. Medical Treatment: They are used to treat conditions like hemochromatosis (iron overload) by removing excess iron from the body.

2. Agriculture: Iron chelators help improve iron availability in soils, promoting plant growth, especially in iron-deficient conditions.

3. Industrial Processes: In water treatment and other industrial applications, iron chelators help prevent the precipitation of iron, improving product quality and system efficiency.

By binding to iron, chelators can help regulate its availability, reducing toxicity and preventing unwanted reactions.