Understanding Bulky Groups: Definition and Explanation

[ldv1452]

What is meant by the term "bulky group?" I couldn't find a definition for this.

 

[espen180]

A group that litterally is big and bulky, where steric hindrance becomes a deciding factor for which reactions take place.

Try searching for steric hindrance on Wikipedia to read more.

 

[DDTea]

It might be easier to understand the bulkiness of a group with some kind of model set. But as espen said, it literally refers to the size of the group.

Examples of non-bulky groups would be the cyanide (-CN) and azide (-N3) ions, which are small, linear, and shaped like "bullets." The classic "bulky" group is t-butyl, -C(CH3)3. All those methyl groups create quite a bit of steric hindrance.

 

[ldv1452]

Thank you for the responses. I'll read up on steric hindrance as well.

 

[LudusRex]

A bulky group, in the context of chemistry, refers to a large and relatively bulky molecule or functional group attached to a smaller molecule. This bulky group can significantly affect the reactivity and physical properties of the molecule it is attached to. Examples of bulky groups include tert-butyl, phenyl, and cyclohexyl groups. These groups can provide steric hindrance, shielding the central molecule from other reactants or solvents, and can also influence the overall shape and flexibility of the molecule. Understanding the effects of bulky groups is crucial in designing and predicting the behavior of complex molecules in various chemical reactions and processes.