What is the Difference Between EDTA and EGTA?

EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) and EGTA (Ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid) are both chelating agents, but they have different properties and affinities for metal ions. The main differences between EDTA and EGTA are:

1. Affinity for metal ions: EDTA has a higher affinity for Mg2+ ions compared to EGTA. EGTA has a higher affinity for Ca2+ ions but a lower affinity for Mg2+ ions.
2. Applications: EDTA is widely used in biochemistry, molecular biology, and cell biology for various applications, such as preserving biological samples and sequestering trace amounts of metal ions. EGTA is commonly used in cell culture, enzyme assays, DNA extraction, protein purification, and electrophysiology.
3. Boiling point and density: EGTA has a higher boiling point and flashing point than EDTA. EDTA is denser than EGTA.

In summary, EDTA and EGTA are both chelating agents with different affinities for metal ions and various applications in molecular biology and cell biology. EDTA has a higher affinity for Mg2+ ions, while EGTA has a higher affinity for Ca2+ ions.

Comparative Table: EDTA vs EGTA

EDTA and EGTA are both synthetic compounds used in various applications, but they have some differences. Here is a table comparing the two:

Both EDTA and EGTA are hexadentate ligands with four carboxylic acid groups and two amine groups, making them highly effective chelating agents. However, EGTA is less stable than EDTA. EDTA is more commonly used in various applications, while EGTA is used in specific situations where its increased stability may be beneficial.