Question:

Which of the following product is formed when salicylic acid is treated with (CH3CO)2O in the presence of acid ?

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Acetic anhydride acetylates the phenolic -OH of salicylic acid → aspirin; -COOH stays.
Updated On: Jun 15, 2026
  • o-C6H4(COOCH3)(OH) — methyl 2-hydroxybenzoate
  • o-C6H4(OCOCH3)(OH)
  • o-C6H4(COCH3)(COOH)
  • o-C6H4(OCOCH3)(COOH) — aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Salicylic acid is 2-hydroxybenzoic acid — it has a phenolic –OH and a –COOH on adjacent carbons. Acetic anhydride, (CH3CO)2O, acetylates the phenolic –OH (O-acetylation) in the presence of acid.
Reasoning: The –OH becomes –OCOCH3 while the –COOH is untouched, giving 2-(acetyloxy)benzoic acid, i.e. aspirin.
Answer: (D) o-C6H4(OCOCH3)(COOH).
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