Understanding Bulky Groups: Definition and Explanation

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The term "bulky group" refers to a molecular group that is large enough to create steric hindrance, influencing the reactivity and outcomes of chemical reactions. Steric hindrance occurs when the spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule prevents certain reactions from occurring due to physical size constraints. Examples of non-bulky groups include cyanide (-CN) and azide (-N3), which are small and linear. In contrast, the t-butyl group (-C(CH3)3) is a classic example of a bulky group, as its multiple methyl groups significantly increase steric hindrance. Understanding these concepts can be enhanced by studying models that illustrate molecular size and shape.
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What is meant by the term "bulky group?" I couldn't find a definition for this.
 
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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.
 
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.
 
Thank you for the responses. I'll read up on steric hindrance as well.
 

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