Question:

Which of the following compounds, when treated with acetic anhydride, forms aspirin?

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Aspirin is made by acetylating the phenolic OH group of salicylic acid.
Updated On: Nov 12, 2026
  • Benzoic acid
  • 2-Hydroxybenzoic acid
  • 2-Methylbenzoic acid
  • Benzene-1,2-dicarboxylic acid
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Aspirin is acetylsalicylic acid, or 2-acetoxybenzoic acid. It is obtained by acetylation of a phenolic -OH group.

Step 2: Reaction
Salicylic acid reacts with acetic anhydride to give aspirin and acetic acid. The -OH on the ring becomes -OCOCH3.

Step 3: Identify the compound
Salicylic acid is 2-hydroxybenzoic acid. The other options have no phenolic -OH to acetylate.

Final Answer:
2-Hydroxybenzoic acid gives aspirin on treatment with acetic anhydride. \[ \boxed{\text{(B) }\text{2-Hydroxybenzoic acid}} \]
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