Steric Strain arises when atoms or groups of atoms not bonded to
each other are forced into close proximity. Below are cis 2-butene
and trans 2-butene. Which is the cis isome and show the steric strain.
Display in space filling mode.(left click, "Model display", space filling).
In the cis, using a pen, point to the area where the radii of the hydrogens
are overlapping.