Problem 32 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

An ester used as a medicine is (a) methyl acetate (b) ethyl acetate (c) ethyl benzoate (d) methyl salicylate

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

(d) methyl salicylate

Step 1: Understanding Esters

Esters are a class of organic compounds characterized by the functional group \(-COO-\). They are typically derived from carboxylic acids and alcohols. Esters commonly have fragrant odors and some are used in food flavorings, perfumes, and medicines.

Step 2: Identifying the Esters

The options given in the exercise are: (a) methyl acetate, (b) ethyl acetate, (c) ethyl benzoate, and (d) methyl salicylate. Each of these contains an ester functional group, but one of them is more commonly known for its medicinal use.

Step 3: Evaluating Medicinal Uses

Methyl salicylate is commonly used in medicine. It is known as oil of wintergreen and is used topically as a counterirritant in Liniments. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is used for relief from muscle and joint pain. The other esters listed are more commonly associated with flavors and industrial uses rather than direct medicinal use.

Step 4: Solution Conclusion

From the options provided, the ester with a well-known medicinal use is methyl salicylate. This makes option (d) the correct answer.

Key Concepts

Organic Compounds

Organic compounds are primarily made of carbon atoms and are found in all living organisms. They form the basis of organic chemistry and include a vast array of substances that range from simple molecules like methane to complex structures such as proteins and DNA.
What makes organic compounds incredibly diverse is the ability of carbon atoms to form stable chains, rings, and multi-dimensional frameworks by bonding with other carbon atoms and various other elements, mainly hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen.

• These compounds often contain functional groups which dictate their specific chemical reactions and properties.
• They play an essential role in life processes, as well as industrial applications, including pharmaceuticals, fuels, and textiles.

By understanding the structure and function of organic compounds, we can comprehend how fundamental life processes work and how we can manipulate these compounds for technological and medicinal purposes.

Functional Group

A functional group is a specific group of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. Each functional group exhibits distinct properties and reactivity patterns.
For example, the functional group that characterizes esters is \(-COO-\). This group is pivotal in determining the behavior of ester compounds in various chemical settings.

• Functional groups are crucial in defining the chemistry and reactions of organic molecules.
• They help classify organic compounds based on shared properties and the types of reactions they can undergo.

By altering functional groups, chemists can modify the reactivity and solubility of organic compounds, which is particularly valuable in designing drugs and understanding their modes of action.

Methyl Salicylate

Methyl salicylate is an organic ester that is well-known in the field of medicine. It is better recognized by its common name, oil of wintergreen. This compound can be identified by its aromatic scent and is primarily composed of the ester functional group.
Methyl salicylate serves as a topical analgesic, commonly used in liniments designed to relieve muscle and joint discomfort. It can penetrate the skin to provide soothing relief by acting as a counterirritant, drawing blood to the area of application and thereby easing pain and inflammation.

• Methyl salicylate is synthesized from salicylic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in plants.
• Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable component in many over-the-counter pain relief products.

In medicinal use, understanding the chemical properties of methyl salicylate helps in formulating effective topical treatments that leverage its analgesic benefits.