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How does the concentration of the reactants affect the reaction rate and ultimately the reaction yield in the synthesis of aspirin?

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The synthesis of aspirin  acetylsalicylic acid  involves the reaction between salicylic acid and acetic anhydride in the presence of an acid catalyst, such as sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid. The concentration of the reactants plays a crucial role in determining the reaction rate and the reaction yield.1. Reaction rate: According to the collision theory, the rate of a chemical reaction depends on the frequency of collisions between the reacting molecules. When the concentration of the reactants is increased, the number of molecules per unit volume also increases, leading to a higher frequency of collisions. As a result, the reaction rate increases with an increase in the concentration of the reactants.2. Reaction yield: The reaction yield refers to the amount of product formed in a chemical reaction. In the synthesis of aspirin, the reaction is an equilibrium process, meaning that the reaction can proceed in both the forward  formation of aspirin  and reverse  decomposition of aspirin  directions. The position of the equilibrium can be influenced by the concentration of the reactants.According to Le Chatelier's principle, if the concentration of the reactants is increased, the equilibrium will shift towards the formation of more products  aspirin in this case  to counteract the change. Therefore, increasing the concentration of the reactants can lead to a higher reaction yield.However, it is essential to maintain an optimal concentration of the reactants to avoid side reactions and the formation of by-products. For example, if the concentration of the acid catalyst is too high, it can cause the hydrolysis of acetic anhydride to acetic acid, which can further react with salicylic acid to form undesired products.In summary, the concentration of the reactants in the synthesis of aspirin affects both the reaction rate and the reaction yield. Increasing the concentration of the reactants can lead to a faster reaction rate and a higher reaction yield, provided that the optimal conditions are maintained to minimize side reactions and by-product formation.
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