Which of the following is most reactive in nucleophilic acyl substitution?Select answer from the options belowketoneacid halidecarboxylic acidester

To determine which compound is most reactive in nucleophilic acyl substitution, it's essential to consider the nature of the carbonyl compound and the ease of substitution by a nucleophile.

1. Acid Halide: Acid halides are highly reactive due to the electron-withdrawing nature of the halogen, which increases the electrophilicity of the carbonyl carbon. They can readily undergo nucleophilic attack.

2. Carboxylic Acid: Carboxylic acids are less reactive than acid halides because they have a hydroxyl group that is less yielding compared to a halide.

3. Ester: Esters are even less reactive than carboxylic acids because they have an alkoxy group that is more stable and less prepared to facilitate nucleophilic substitution.

4. Ketone: Ketones are also relatively less reactive compared to acid halides due to the stability of their structure and the presence of two alkyl groups which donate electron density to the carbonyl carbon.

Final Answer: The most reactive compound in nucleophilic acyl substitution is the acid halide.