Question

Explain how 4-aminophenol is converted to paracetamol, and explain why this reaction must occur.

Answer 1

To convert 4-aminophenol to paracetamol, it goes through an acetylation reaction with acetic anhydride in the presence of a catalyst. This is important because paracetamol is widely used for pain relief and reducing fever.

Step-by-step explanation:

To convert 4-aminophenol to paracetamol, it undergoes an acetylation reaction. Here's the step-by-step process:

1. 4-aminophenol reacts with acetic anhydride (CH3CO2) in the presence of a catalyst such as sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid.
2. The amine group (-NH2) in 4-aminophenol is replaced by an acetyl group (-COCH3) from acetic anhydride, resulting in the formation of paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen).
3. The reaction is then followed by a hydrolysis step, where excess acid is neutralized and paracetamol is isolated and purified.

This reaction is important because paracetamol has analgesic and antipyretic properties, making it a commonly used drug for pain relief and reducing fever.