Problem 13 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Chemical name of salol is (a) phenyl salicylate (b) methyl salicylate (c) sodium salicylate (d) acetylsalicyclic acid

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The chemical name of salol is (a) phenyl salicylate.

Step 1: Understanding the Problem

We need to identify the correct chemical name for 'salol' from the given options.

Step 2: Reviewing the Options

The four options provided are: (a) phenyl salicylate, (b) methyl salicylate, (c) sodium salicylate, and (d) acetylsalicylic acid. These are different chemical compounds, each with their own distinct structures and functions.

Step 3: Recollecting Chemical Names

"Salol" is a compound used in various applications, such as in sunscreens and as an antiseptic. The name 'salol' is the common name for phenyl salicylate, which is formed by esterification of salicylic acid with phenol.

Step 4: Selecting the Correct Option

Based on the review and recollection, option (a) phenyl salicylate corresponds to the common name 'salol'. Therefore, we select option (a) as the correct answer.

Key Concepts

Phenyl Salicylate

Phenyl salicylate, commonly known as "salol," is a compound with a variety of uses. It is the product of the esterification process between salicylic acid and phenol. This compound is notable for several reasons:

• It has cooling and analgesic properties, making it valuable in medicinal applications.
• The compound is often used in sunscreens due to its ability to absorb ultraviolet light.
• Phenyl salicylate also serves as an antiseptic and disinfectant.

In its pure form, phenyl salicylate appears as a white, crystalline powder. Its role in chemistry is quite prominent since esters like phenyl salicylate demonstrate fascinating characteristics and applications in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Understanding phenyl salicylate includes appreciating its function as an ester and recognizing how esters, in general, serve as fundamental compounds in various formulations.

Esterification

The process of esterification is a chemical reaction used to create an ester, which is a compound formed from an alcohol and an acid. In the case of phenyl salicylate, the specific reaction involves salicylic acid and phenol: - **Salicylic Acid** acts as the acid component. - **Phenol** contributes as the alcohol component. This reaction typically proceeds in the presence of an acid catalyst, which accelerates the transformation. The general mechanism involves:

• Protonation of the acid group to make it more electrophilic.
• Nucleophilic attack by the alcohol on the carbonyl carbon of the acid.
• Formation of an ester bond after the elimination of water.

The esterification process is fundamental in organic chemistry for synthesizing a wide variety of esters, which are prevalent in synthetic and natural products. Understanding esterification helps us appreciate how complex molecules like phenyl salicylate are synthesized from simpler substances.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is an aromatic compound extensively used in organic synthesis and medicine. As a precursor in the synthesis of phenyl salicylate, it plays a crucial role in the esterification process. Key features of salicylic acid include:

• Presence of a hydroxyl group and a carboxyl group within its structure.
• Utilization in the production of other important compounds such as aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid).
• Commonly used in skincare products due to its ability to exfoliate the skin and treat acne.

Because of its dual functional groups, salicylic acid participates in numerous organic reactions, making it a versatile compound in chemical manufacturing. Its significance goes beyond its role in esterification to produce phenyl salicylate, highlighting its importance in pharmaceuticals and dermatological treatments.