Contemporary Physics
In 1959, Taylor & Francis began publishing Contemporary Physics as a quarterly journal. The first issue arrived with four distinct sections covering the breadth of modern physics. Editors chose to include astrophysics alongside atomic and nuclear physics in that initial run. They also added chemical physics and computational physics to the mix. Experimental physics and general physics rounded out the early scope. The team aimed to cover particle and high energy physics without excluding plasma physics or space science. Theoretical physics received equal attention from the start. This broad approach set a precedent for future issues.
Sir Peter Knight serves as the current Editor-in-Chief of the publication. He oversees the editorial board members who handle all screening processes. Peer review is conducted strictly by these appointed board members before any article appears. The process ensures that only introductory articles on recent developments pass through. Sir Anthony James Leggett previously held significant influence over the journal's direction. His tenure contributed to maintaining rigorous standards across decades. Otto Robert Frisch once served on the board during the mid-20th century. Vitaly Ginzburg also participated in editorial decisions regarding nuclear topics. These figures shaped the journal's reputation for quality control.
The Thomson Reuters Journal Citation Reports listed an impact factor of 5.185 for the year 2020. This number reflects how often other researchers cite articles from this specific journal. Major databases now include Contemporary Physics within their collections. Inspec indexes the content alongside EBSCO Publishing records. Current Mathematical Publications and Mathematical Reviews both list its entries. SciSearch and SciBase maintain archives of the published work. The inclusion in these systems allows global access to the research. Scientists rely on these indices to find relevant studies quickly.
Stephen Hawking, CBE, FRS, contributed several papers to the publication over his career. Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, FRS, wrote influential pieces on stellar physics. Leon Cooper shared insights on superconductivity with the readership. Jim Al-Khalili, OBE, provided accessible explanations of quantum mechanics. Sir Nevill Francis Mott discussed condensed matter physics extensively. Abdus Salam addressed theoretical frameworks involving particle interactions. Arthur Leonard Schawlow explored laser physics concepts for students. Sir John Pendry examined metamaterials and electromagnetic waves. These names represent a collection of Nobel laureates and distinguished fellows who chose this platform.
The journal targets undergraduates as its primary audience for introductory review articles. Teachers and lecturers receive specialized content designed for classroom instruction. Postgraduate students starting their careers find value in the standard book reviews. A major section exists specifically for essay reviews that cover general field aspects. This format appeals to those seeking wide context rather than narrow data points. Taylor & Francis maintains this educational mission since 1959. The four annual issues provide consistent material for academic programs. The goal remains serving educators and learners across all physics subfields.
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Common questions
When did Taylor & Francis begin publishing Contemporary Physics?
Taylor & Francis began publishing Contemporary Physics in 1959. The first issue arrived with four distinct sections covering the breadth of modern physics.
Who is the current Editor-in-Chief of Contemporary Physics?
Sir Peter Knight serves as the current Editor-in-Chief of the publication. He oversees the editorial board members who handle all screening processes.
What was the impact factor for Contemporary Physics in 2020 according to Thomson Reuters Journal Citation Reports?
The Thomson Reuters Journal Citation Reports listed an impact factor of 5.185 for the year 2020. This number reflects how often other researchers cite articles from this specific journal.
Which Nobel laureates contributed papers to Contemporary Physics over their careers?
Stephen Hawking, CBE, FRS, and Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, FRS, wrote influential pieces on stellar physics. Leon Cooper shared insights on superconductivity while Abdus Salam addressed theoretical frameworks involving particle interactions.
Who are the primary audiences targeted by Contemporary Physics for its introductory review articles?
The journal targets undergraduates as its primary audience for introductory review articles. Teachers and lecturers receive specialized content designed for classroom instruction.