Answer:
Chelation involves the formation of a complex where a central metal ion is bonded to a ligand through multiple coordination sites. This leads to increased stability due to the formation of strong bonds between the metal ion and the ligand, known as the chelate effect. Chelation also influences reactivity by providing a constrained environment around the metal ion, affecting selectivity, catalytic activity, and reaction rates. Additionally, steric effects introduced by chelation can impact the geometry of the coordination complex and its reactivity towards substrates or other ligands. Furthermore, chelating ligands can modify the redox properties of metal ions, influencing their electronic structure and redox behavior. Overall, chelation is a fundamental concept in coordination chemistry, profoundly affecting the stability, reactivity, and properties of coordination compounds.