With reference to the two statements Assertion and Reason, choose the correct option. Assertion: The order of reactivity towards S_N 1 reaction is: C₆ H₅- CH₂ Br > (CH₃ )₃- C - Br > (CH₃ )₂- CH - Br. Reason: Among the given 3 compounds the Benzyl carbocation formed is the most stable while Isopropyl carbocation is the least stable one.

Step-by-step solution

The reactivity of alkyl halides towards S _ N 1 reactions depends on the stability of the intermediate carbocation formed during the rate-determining step. The carbocations formed from the given alkyl halides are: 1. Benzyl carbocation ( C ₆ H ₅ CH ₂^+ ) from C ₆ H ₅ CH ₂ Br 2. tert-Butyl carbocation ( ( CH ₃)₃ C ^+ ) from ( CH ₃)₃ CBr 3. Isopropyl carbocation ( ( CH ₃)₂ CH ^+ ) from ( CH ₃)₂ CHBr The benzyl carbocation is highly stabilized by the delocalization of the positive charge over the benzene ring through