Reaction \(C_6H_5CH_2Br\) with aqueous sodium hydroxide follows preferably

\(S_N1\) mechanism

The correct answer is option 1. \(S_N1\) mechanism.

In the given reaction, the solvent is aq. \(NaOH\) which is polar protic and thus the reaction will proceed through \(S_N1\) mechanism. Also the intermediate formed is \(C_6H_5CH_2^+\) which is more stable carbocation because of resonance. As we know the stability of carbocation is directly proportional to the \(S_N1\) mechanism. Hence, the reaction will follow \(S_N1\) mechanism out of the given four options.