Question

Aspirin is chemically known as:

• A. Acetyl salicylic acid
• B. Sodium salicylate
• C. Methyl salicylate
• D. Ethyl salicylate

Hint:

Aspirin is an ester made from salicylic acid and acetic acid.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Recall the source molecule.
Aspirin is made starting from salicylic acid, a compound with both a -OH group and a -COOH group on a benzene ring.
Step 2: Identify the reaction.
The -OH group of salicylic acid is acetylated using acetic anhydride, replacing the H of -OH with an acetyl group (-COCH₃).
Step 3: Name the product.
The product formed is acetyl salicylic acid, which is the chemical name of aspirin, used as a pain reliever and fever reducer.
Step 4: Eliminate other options.
Sodium salicylate is the sodium salt of salicylic acid, a different drug. Methyl salicylate is oil of wintergreen, used in ointments. Ethyl salicylate is not the common pharmaceutical name for aspirin.
Final Answer: A) Acetyl salicylic acid.