Home > Community > If we use too much sulfuric acid in the synthesis of aspirin, we cant get aspirin, why?
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+ Acids
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Kevin Cottrell

If we use too much sulfuric acid in the synthesis of aspirin, we cant get aspirin, why?

Ahmed Ali  Follow

That's close to the daily limit for adults, and not meant to be taken all in one dose. Even in smaller amounts and can cause upset stomach, and over time cause gastritis and bleeding, including sudden hemorrhage or perforating ulcers.

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Bette Stalford  Follow

You are most likely preparing Aspirin from salicylic acid and acetic anhydride.

This esterification reaction is catalysed with small amounts of a strong acid. (sulfuric acid in this case)

If you add more than catalytic amounts, the sulfuric acid itself would hydrolyse the aspirin back to salicylic acid and acetic acid.

If you were to add very large amounts of sulfuric acid you might even sulfonate acetic anhydride to sulfoacetic acid.

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