Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around identifying the top physics journals aside from Physical Review, with a focus on the perceived rankings and reputations of various journals within the field of physics.
Discussion Character
Main Points Raised
- One participant assumes Physical Review is the top journal and asks for a list of the next best ten.
- Another participant argues that for many areas of physics, journals like Science and Nature are considered the top publications, while highlighting that for high energy physics, Physical Review Letters (PRL) is preferred.
- A participant expresses surprise at receiving a serious answer and inquires specifically about the Physical Review series, mentioning its various subdivisions such as PR(A-Z) for different specializations.
- Further elaboration on the Physical Review series includes descriptions of its sub-journals: PRA for Molecular, Atomic and Optical, PRB for Condensed Matter and Materials, PRC for Nuclear, PRD for Particles, Field, Gravity, Cosmology, and PRE for Statistical, Nonlinear and Soft Matter.
- There is a humorous mention of PRL being referred to as "Physical Review Lottery" due to perceived cliquishness in the publication process.
- A joking reference is made to PRZ, suggesting it is an exclusive journal by invitation only.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the ranking of journals, with no consensus reached on which journals should be included in the top ten list.
Contextual Notes
The discussion reflects varying opinions on journal prestige, which may depend on specific subfields within physics and personal experiences with the publication process.
been called Physical Review Lottery a few times -- and people have been pissed with it because it can be a bit cliquey.)