Steric effects refer to the influence of the spatial arrangement of atoms in a molecule on its chemical behavior. These effects arise when the size and shape of atoms or groups within a molecule hinder or facilitate interactions with other molecules. For example, larger groups can create steric hindrance, making it difficult for reactants to approach each other during a chemical reaction. In organic chemistry, steric effects play a crucial role in determining the reactivity and stability of compounds. They can influence reaction pathways, product formation, and even the physical properties of substances. Understanding steric effects is essential for predicting how molecules will behave in various chemical contexts, such as in the study of catalysts or enzyme activity.