Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): I$^-$ undergoes SN$_2$ reaction faster than Cl$^-$.
Reason (R): Iodine is a better leaving group because of its large size.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
• B. A is true but R is false.
• C. A is false but R is true.
• D. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

Hint:

In SN\(_2\) reactions, the leaving group ability increases with the size of the atom, as larger atoms can stabilize the negative charge better after departure. This is why I\(^-\) is a better leaving group than Cl\(^-\).