Chapter U2, Problem 4RE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:The name of the two functional groups present in methyl salicylate needs to be determined.

Concept Introduction: A group of atoms or an atom which is responsible for the characteristic reactions of a particular compound is said to be the functional group. Every functional group shows distinctive chemical properties irrespective to the moiety to which it is attached.

Answer to Problem 4RE

The name of the two functional groups present in methyl salicylate is alcohol and ester.

Explanation of Solution

The structural formula of methyl salicylate is:

  

An organic compound in which hydroxyl functional group that is $\text{-OH}$ is bonded to the carbon atom is said to be an alcohol.

An organic compound in which carboxyl functional group that is $\text{-COOH}$ is bonded to the carbon atom is said to be a carboxylic acid. The general formula for carboxylic acid is ${\text{RCOOH or RCO}}_{\text{2}}\text{H}$ . When -H of the carboxylic acid is replaced by an alkyl or aryl group (-R’) then it results in the formation of an ester having general formula $\text{RCOOR’}$ .

For the given compound, the name two functional groups are alcohol and ester as shown below: