This chemical is widely used as a chelating agent in various biochemical and industrial applications. It effectively binds to metal ions, making it valuable in buffer solutions to stabilize enzymes and proteins by preventing metal ion interference. In molecular biology, it is commonly employed in DNA and RNA isolation procedures to inhibit nucleases that require metal ions for activity. Additionally, it is utilized in water treatment processes to sequester metal ions, preventing scale formation and corrosion in pipelines. Its ability to form stable complexes with calcium and magnesium ions also makes it useful in detergent formulations to enhance cleaning efficiency.