This chemical is primarily used as a chelating agent in various industrial and medical applications. In the medical field, it is employed in imaging techniques, particularly in MRI scans, where it helps enhance the contrast of images by binding to metal ions such as gadolinium. This improves the visibility of tissues and organs, aiding in more accurate diagnoses. In industrial settings, it is utilized in water treatment processes to sequester metal ions, preventing scale formation and corrosion in pipelines and equipment. Additionally, it finds use in the synthesis of complex molecules in chemical research, where its ability to bind to metal ions is leveraged to facilitate specific reactions.