Which of the following is the most reactive towards hydrolysis by cold water?

A $CH X_{3} CN$
B $CH X_{3} COCl$
C $CH X_{3} COOCH X_{3}$
D $CH X_{3} CONH X_{2}$

Answer: B

Acid chlorides have the best leaving group (

Cl X^{-}

) and a highly electrophilic carbonyl carbon, so ethanoyl chloride reacts vigorously with cold water. Ester and amide are stable at room temperature, and the anhydride hydrolyses more slowly.

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