Identify the correct order of reactivity of the following compounds towards the S _ N 1 reaction: (i) (ii) (iii)

Step-by-step solution

The reactivity of a compound towards the S _ N 1 reaction depends on the stability of the intermediate carbocation formed after the departure of the leaving group (chloride ion). In compound (i), the departure of the chloride ion generates a secondary benzylic carbocation, which is stabilized by resonance with the adjacent benzene ring. In compound (ii), the carbocation formed is adjacent to both the benzene ring and an oxygen atom. It is stabilized by resonance with the benzene ring as well as the strong + M effec