Which of the following compounds represents an analgesic ?

Options

A.
B.
C.
D.

Explanation

To determine which of the given compounds represents an analgesic, we will analyze each option based on their properties and classification.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Definition of Analgesics:**
- Analgesics are drugs that relieve pain. They can be classified into two main categories: non-opioid analgesics (like aspirin) and opioid analgesics.

2. **Evaluate the First Option:**
- The first compound is **2-acetoxybenzoic acid**, commonly known as **aspirin**.
- Aspirin is widely recognized for its analgesic properties, meaning it is used to relieve pain.
- **Conclusion:** This compound is an analgesic.

3. **Evaluate the Second Option:**
- The second compound is **parahydroxybenzamide**.
- This compound does not have analgesic properties and is not used for pain relief.
- **Conclusion:** This compound is not an analgesic.

4. **Evaluate the Third Option:**
- The third compound is **4-methylbenzoic acid**.
- This compound is also not known for any analgesic properties and does not relieve pain.
- **Conclusion:** This compound is not an analgesic.

5. **Evaluate the Fourth Option:**
- The fourth compound is **orthohydroxybenzoic acid**.
- Similar to the previous compounds, this one does not have pain-relieving properties.
- **Conclusion:** This compound is not an analgesic.

6. **Final Conclusion:**
- After evaluating all the options, the only compound that acts as an analgesic is **2-acetoxybenzoic acid (aspirin)**.
- Therefore, the correct answer is **A: 2-acetoxybenzoic acid**.