Van der Waals strain, or steric strain, occurs when atoms are forced to get closer than their Van der Waals radii allow. Specifically, Van der Waals strain is considered a form of strain where the interacting atoms are at least four bonds away from each other.

What causes steric strain?

Steric strain (van der Waals strain): An increase in molecular potential energy (strain) caused when atoms or groups separated by at least four covalent bonds are forced closer than their van der Waals radii allow.

How do I know if I have steric strain?

The steric strain of a molecule is determined by the bulky groups present in a molecule and the distance between those bulky groups. Newman projection is a simple structure that shows the arrangement of atoms or groups of atoms in an organic molecule.