Practice Problem 2

The following compounds are the active ingredients in over-the-counter drugs used as analgesics (to relieve pain without decreasing sensibility or consciousness), antipyretics (to reduce the body temperature when it is elevated), and/or anti-inflammatory agents (to counteract swelling or inflammation of the joints, skin, and eyes). Identify the functional groups in each molecule.

Solution

All three compounds are aromatic. Aspirin is also a carboxylic acid (CO₂H) and an ester (CO₂CH₃). Tylenol is also an alcohol (OH) and an amide (CONH). Ibuprofen contains alkane substituents and a carboxylic acid functional group.