What is 1 a3?

1. a3 is a common move in chess that is often used as a part of the queen pawn opening system.
2. It is a pawn move that is played from the starting position of the board, advancing the a-pawn to the third rank.
3. The move 1. a3 does not significantly impact the center of the board, but it does create some opportunities for the developing of pieces and controlling of squares in the b4 and b5 squares.
4. The purpose of playing this move could be to prevent the black bishop from pinning the knight on c3 or simply to control the b4 and b5 squares.
5. The main disadvantage of playing 1. a3 is that it weakens the queen's side, creating potential weaknesses like b3 or c3 squares. Therefore, it is not usually considered a strong move in chess theory.