Step 1: Understanding the mechanism.
This is a nucleophilic acyl substitution reaction where Z is the nucleophile. The speed of the reaction depends on the nucleophile's basicity and size. A smaller and stronger nucleophile leads to faster reactions.
Step 2: Explanation of the options.
- (1) Cl: Chloride ion is a small and good nucleophile, making the reaction faster.
- (2) NH2: Amine is a good nucleophile, but its size and basicity make it slower than chloride.
- (3) OC2H5: Ethoxy group is a larger nucleophile, making the reaction slower.
- (4) OCOCH3: This ester group is bulky, slowing down the reaction.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (1) Cl.