Step 1: Identifying the reaction.
When acetic anhydride reacts with a compound in the presence of sulfuric acid, the reaction forms an ester or an acid derivative. To form aspirin, the carboxylic acid group (\( \text{COOH} \)) on the aromatic ring reacts with the acetic anhydride.
Step 2: Explanation of the options.
- (1) \( \text{CHO} \): This is the aldehyde group, and it does not form aspirin in the given reaction.
- (2) \( \text{COOH} \): This is the correct option. The carboxylic acid group forms aspirin upon reaction with acetic anhydride.
- (3) \( \text{OH} \): This hydroxyl group does not react to form aspirin in the same manner.
- (4) \( \text{NH}_2 \): The amino group does not form aspirin in this reaction.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (2).