How is 2-Methoxy-4,5-dimethylbenzoic acid (CAS: 91061-36-8) typically synthesized?

2-Methoxy-4,5-dimethylbenzoic acid is typically synthesized through a multi-step process involving the methylation of benzene followed by esterification. The initial step involves the bromination of toluene to form 4-bromotoluene, which is then methylated using methyl iodide and sodium hydride. The resulting 4-methylbenzyl bromide undergoes an esterification reaction with methanol and acetic anhydride to produce the final product. The reaction is catalyzed by sulfuric acid, and the overall process yields approximately 85% of the desired compound.