2hydroxybenzoate

2hydroxybenzoate is the systematic name for salicylate. It is an organic compound with the chemical formula C7H5O3. It is a derivative of benzoic acid, with a hydroxyl group attached to the ortho position (carbon number 2) of the benzene ring. This structural arrangement is key to its chemical properties and biological activity.

2hydroxybenzoate is a weak acid and a white crystalline solid. It is sparingly soluble in water but dissolves readily in many organic solvents like ethanol and ether. The compound is an important intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals. Its most well-known derivative is acetylsalicylic acid, commonly known as aspirin, a widely used pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug.

In nature, 2hydroxybenzoate is found in some plants, particularly in willow bark. It is a precursor to salicylic acid, which plays a role in plant defense mechanisms. Historically, extracts from willow bark containing salicylates were used for medicinal purposes long before the isolation and synthesis of pure compounds. The esterification of 2hydroxybenzoate with acetic anhydride yields acetylsalicylic acid, a process that significantly reduces its irritating effects on the stomach compared to salicylic acid itself. Beyond pharmaceuticals, 2hydroxybenzoate and its derivatives find applications in the production of dyes, perfumes, and as preservatives.

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