Description
- Extract salicylic acid from willow bark
- Compare properties of salicylic acid and acetylsalicylic acid
- Synthesize aspirin from willow bark extract
Use a familiar pharmaceutical product, aspirin, to introduce students to functional groups and organic synthesis. In this organic chemistry experiment, students compare the properties of salicylic acid and acetylsalicylic acid through pH and iron chloride testing. They then extract salicylic acid from willow bark and use it to produce acetylsalicylic acid (the active ingredient in aspirin). This activity is designed for a class of 30 students working in pairs and requires approximately 45 min to complete. Note: Fifteen Chemplates®: (item #840690) or similar test plates are needed but not supplied.