Question

Aspirin is also known as:

• A. Salicylic acid
• B. Ethyl Salicylic acid
• C. Methyl Salicylic acid
• D. Acetyl Salicylic acid

Hint:

Aspirin is chemically known as acetylsalicylic acid, which is derived from salicylic acid. It is made by adding an acetyl group (–COCH₃) to the hydroxyl group of salicylic acid. This modification helps reduce the irritation caused by pure salicylic acid and makes aspirin a widely used pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Aspirin is a commonly used medication primarily recognized for its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. Chemically, it is known as Acetyl Salicylic acid. The structure of Aspirin consists of a salicylate moiety with an acetyl group attached to it, which differentiates it from other forms of salicylic acid derivatives.

Here is a brief explanation of each term:

• Salicylic Acid: This is the base compound, known for its role in making aspirin, containing a hydroxyl group on a benzene ring.
• Ethyl Salicylic Acid: A hypothetical derivative where the hydroxyl group in salicylic acid might be replaced by an ethoxy group. It does not represent aspirin.
• Methyl Salicylic Acid: Another hypothetical derivative where the hydroxyl group might be substituted by a methoxy group. It is not the same as aspirin.
• Acetyl Salicylic Acid: The correct form, where an acetyl group is linked to the hydroxyl group of salicylic acid to form aspirin.

Aspirin, or Acetyl Salicylic acid, is most recognized by its IUPAC name due to this essential acetyl group substitution.

Answer 2

Aspirin is chemically known as acetylsalicylic acid, which is derived from salicylic acid. It is made by adding an acetyl group \((–COCH₃)\) to the hydroxyl group of salicylic acid. This modification helps reduce the irritation caused by pure salicylic acid and makes aspirin a widely used pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug.