What is the molecular formula of the active component of chili peppers(Capsaicin)?

The story behind the answer

C18H27NO3 is correct because capsaicin is a vanilloid amide: a benzene ring with a methoxy (–OCH3) and a phenolic –OH (two oxygens) linked through an amide (adds one oxygen and the single nitrogen) to a long hydrophobic tail that brings the total to 18 carbons and 27 hydrogens. The other formulas fit unrelated molecules (e.g., C6H4Cl2 is dichlorobenzene).

Capsaicin activates the TRPV1 “heat” receptor, which your brain interprets as burning; paradoxically, this same action desensitizes nerves, so capsaicin is used in topical pain relievers. Memory tip: “Capsaicin = ‘vanilloid’ + amide = 3 O’s (two on the ring, one carbonyl) and 1 N; long tail makes it 18 carbons.” It’s also the benchmark of pepper pungency on the Scoville scale.