Quantum mechanics is a fundamental theory in physics that describes nature at the smallest scales of atoms and subatomic particles. It explains phenomena such as black-body radiation, the photoelectric effect, and atomic spectra. Quantum mechanics has been hugely successful in explaining many features of the universe. It is often the only theory that can reveal behaviors of subatomic particles like electrons, protons, neutrons, and photons that make up all forms of matter. Quantum mechanics also influences string theory and provides insights into chemical bonding processes through quantum chemistry.