Problem 102 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Aspirin is known as- (a) Acetyl salicylate (b) Phenyl salicylate (c) Acetyl salicyclic acid (d) Methyl salicylic acid

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Aspirin is Acetyl salicyclic acid (c).

Step 1: Identify the Aspirin's Chemical Structure

Aspirin is a medication commonly used to reduce pain, fever, or inflammation. Its chemical structure is derived from salicylic acid with an acetyl group attached to it.

Step 2: Analyze the Option Closest to Aspirin's Structure

Examine the options given: (a) Acetyl salicylate, (b) Phenyl salicylate, (c) Acetyl salicyclic acid, and (d) Methyl salicylic acid. Option (c) mentions 'acetyl' and 'salicyclic acid', which aligns closely with Aspirin's composition.

Step 3: Conclude the Correct Chemical Name

From the analysis, option (c) Acetyl salicyclic acid is the scientific name for Aspirin as it precisely describes its chemical composition of an acetyl group bonded to salicylic acid.

Key Concepts

Aspirin chemical structure

Aspirin is one of the most commonly used medications worldwide to alleviate pain, reduce fever, and combat inflammation. Understanding its chemical structure is essential for comprehending how it functions and why it is effective. The structure of Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid, features a salicylic acid core, which is a simple aromatic acid. This core is modified by attaching an acetyl group, consisting of an acetyl moiety \((CH_3CO-)\). This acetyl group is bonded to the hydroxyl group present on the benzene ring of salicylic acid. The chemical formula of Aspirin is \(C_9H_8O_4\), which highlights the presence of both acetyl and carboxyl groups. These structural components are crucial as they endow Aspirin with its pharmacological properties by affecting the production of chemicals in the body responsible for pain and inflammation.

Acetyl salicylic acid

Acetyl salicylic acid is the formal chemical name for Aspirin. This name provides clues to its chemical structure and origin, which is derived from salicylic acid. The term 'acetyl' refers to the presence of an acetyl group attached to the molecular structure. Thus, acetyl salicylic acid consists of the salicylic acid backbone with an acetyl group bonded to the phenolic hydroxyl group. This acetylation is key to its function as an anti-inflammatory agent. When ingested, Aspirin inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). This inhibition prevents the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are compounds that play a role in pain, fever, and inflammation. The acetyl group is crucial as it modifies the behaviour of salicylic acid, making it easier for the body to absorb and providing the drug's ability to interfere with COX enzymes over an extended period.

Salicylic acid derivatives

Salicylic acid is a versatile compound that forms the basis for various derivatives, each with distinct properties and uses. These derivatives are created by chemically modifying salicylic acid to enhance its effectiveness, stability, or method of action.
Among these, acetyl salicylic acid, or Aspirin, is the most well-known. Its effectiveness as a drug is largely due to the addition of the acetyl group, which changes its interaction with biological systems.

• Another derivative, sodium salicylate, is used as a soluble form for oral medications.
• Methyl salicylate, known for its aromatic scent, is often used in topical analgesic formulations, offering relief through its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Salicylamide is another example, used for its analgesic and antipyretic effects.

These derivatives exemplify how minor chemical changes can significantly affect the characteristics and applications of salicylic acid in medicine and other fields.