Considering nucleophilic acyl substitution, which of the following represents the correct decreasing — Aldehydes Ketones and Carboxylic Acids Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The reactivity of acid derivatives towards nucleophilic acyl substitution depends heavily on the leaving group ability, which correlates inversely with basicity. The chloride ion is the weakest base and best leaving group, making acyl halides most reactive. Amide ions ($-NH_2$) are terrible leaving groups. Thus: Acyl halide > Acid anhydride > Ester > Amide.