Final answer:
The melting point ranges of the synthesized salicylic acid and synthetic salicylic acid from benzene are similar, indicating a high degree of purity and that the two samples are likely the same compound.
Step-by-step explanation:
The melting point of a compound can provide information about its purity. If the melting point range of the salicylic acid you synthesized is 152-155°C and the 1:1 mix of your product and synthetic salicylic acid has a melting point range of 151-154°C, it suggests that the two samples are likely the same compound.
The similar melting point ranges indicate that the synthesized salicylic acid and the synthetic salicylic acid from benzene have a high degree of purity and are indistinguishable from each other.
In general, a narrow and well-defined melting point range indicates high purity, while a wide and broad melting point range suggests impurities or different compounds present.