Impact factor of physics journals

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation and ranking of impact factors for physics journals, with a focus on the criteria used for these calculations and the specific rankings from 2002. Participants explore the differences between general perceptions of "high impact" within the physics community and the metrics used by organizations like ISI.

Discussion Character

• Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

• One participant questions how impact factors are calculated and requests information on the ranking of physics journals in 2003.
• Another participant explains that impact factors are primarily based on citation counts but also mentions other factors, suggesting a search for "ISI Journal Impact Factors" for more detailed formulas.
• Several areas of physics are identified as having different impact factors, including Applied, Atomic, Molecular & Chemical, and others.
• Specific impact factors for various journals are provided, highlighting the top-ranked journals in different categories for 2002.
• One participant expresses surprise that Phys. Rev. Lett. did not appear in the top-5 lists, indicating a potential discrepancy between community perceptions and ISI rankings.
• Another participant notes the difference between what is considered "high impact" in the physics community versus the ISI's algorithmic approach.
• There are references to a source listing the top ten most-cited journals across all fields from 1996-2006, with some participants questioning the timing of this information's discovery.
• Discussion includes comments on the appropriateness of revisiting older threads, with one participant advising against "necroposting."

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the significance of impact factors and the criteria for determining "high impact" journals. There is no consensus on the relevance of the rankings provided or the implications of the differences in perception.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of clarity on the specific methodologies used by ISI for calculating impact factors and the potential influence of the time frame on the relevance of the rankings discussed.