Chemistry
Synthesizing Aspirin from Salicylic Acid
Quick fact
The synthesis of aspirin is a classic esterification reaction where salicylic acid reacts with acetic anhydride in the presence of a sulfuric acid catalyst, producing acetylsalicylic acid and acetic acid.
Why this is interesting
Aspirin is one of the most common pain relievers, but have you ever wondered how it's made from the natural compound found in willow bark?