The topic does not match the journal's goals, the language is not good, the idea of research is old and bad luck. These probably represent some of the reasons for which the researches are rejected by reputable journals.
In many cases not being related to the scope of the journal cause rejection in the very first phase by the editors. Other reasons could be low quality, not having enough contribution, or not being able to elaborate your contribution adequately and properly.
1) Manuscript is not in scope of the journal; 2) the language is not good; 3) the regulations for formatting the manuscript are not according to the journal guidelines.
* All previous answers are excellent and fruitful.
** However, I met some "traders" Journals that refuse the suggestion of new interesting equations in Applied Sciences. They say clearly that they prefer new experimental data to disseminate more volumes and issues.
*** Others refuse the publication of new findings because they have no theoretical precedents, despite it are verified by several systems!