Which compound would be most reactive toward nucleophilic acyl addition-elimination?
A)Acetone
B)Acetyl chloride
C)Acetic anhydride
D)Acetamide
E)Methyl acetate

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acyl halides such as acetyl chloride are the most reactive towards nucleophilic acyl addition-elimination reactions. This is because the chlorine atom is a strong electron-withdrawing group that stabilizes the developing negative charge on the oxygen atom in the tetrahedral intermediate, making it easier for the nucleophile to attack and leading to a faster reaction rate. The other compounds listed have weaker electron-withdrawing groups or no electron-withdrawing groups at all, which makes them less reactive towards this type of reaction.

Which Compound Would Be Most Reactive Toward Nucleophilic Acyl Addition-Elimination