When Black gets to make his first move, White is already controlling some of the center and putting pressure on Black's pieces--limiting his options somewhat.
If played perfectly chess is probably a draw, but there are more pathways that lead to correct play for White. If you've ever heard of the Caltrop coefficient, that is what causes the disparity in W/L percentage. The first move advantage isn't outright lethal for Black, but it is easier for Black to go wrong in the opening and the early midgame. Black has to be more careful to respond to White's initiative, and incorrect play will lead to unsalvageable positions much faster.
Hi all, forgive my naivete, but why is white so much more likely to Win.
When I look at the Explore data, White's percentage is almost always much higher than Black. Nearly regardless of action line taken.
Is the King/Queen reversal or the white first move the reason for this disparity?