Chelating agents function by which mechanism?

• A. Form complexes with metal ions and inactivate the oxidation process
• B. Stabilize pH
• C. Act as surfactants
• D. Inhibit microbial growth

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that chelating agents bind metal ions to form stable metal–ligand complexes, which removes those metals from participating in catalytic redox reactions. Trace metals like iron and copper can accelerate oxidation reactions that damage drugs, fats, and other sensitive substances. By tightly coordinating these metal ions, a chelating agent lowers the metal ion’s availability and activity, effectively inactivating the oxidation processes they would drive. That’s why the correct mechanism is described as forming complexes with metal ions and preventing oxidation. The other options don’t capture this primary action: chelators don’t inherently stabilize pH, act as surfactants, or primarily inhibit microbial growth.