Reaction of C₆H₅CH₂Br with aqueous sodium hydroxide follows: ______

• A. S₁ mechanism
• B. S₂ mechanism
• C. Any of the above two depending upon the temperature of reaction
• D. Saytzeff rule

The reaction of C₆H₅CH₂Br (benzyl bromide) with aqueous sodium hydroxide primarily follows the S_N2 mechanism. This is because the benzyl group is a good leaving group, and the reaction occurs in a polar protic solvent, which favors bimolecular nucleophilic substitution.

Key Points to Consider

• S_N2 Mechanism: This involves a single concerted step where the nucleophile attacks the substrate while the leaving group departs.
• Temperature Influence: While temperature can affect reaction rates, the S_N2 pathway is generally favored for this substrate under standard conditions.
• Saytzeff Rule: This rule pertains to elimination reactions and is not directly applicable here since we are discussing substitution.

Therefore, the correct answer is A. S_N2 mechanism.