Discover
/
Article

Twenty years of Physics Today: The early years

MAY 01, 1968

WHEN, AT LAST, IN May 1948 the first issue of PHYSICS TODAY appeared, it ended a long stretch of wishing, dreaming, planning and figuring. Such a periodical had long been wanted to vivify the whole idea of the American Institute of Physics‐bringing mutually unacquainted specialists in all branches of physics together into a kind of operational unity for enhancement of physics as an important field of human endeavor. We expected PHYSICS TODAY to provide a better cement than just a paper constitution or even the zeal of those few who served terms on the institute governing board. Part of the essential aim was to present the special fields in interesting terms that all physicists and most laymen could understand.

This article is only available in PDF format

More about the authors

Henry A. Barton, American Institute of Physics (retired).

Related content
/
Article
Since the discovery was first reported in 1999, researchers have uncovered many aspects of the chiral-induced spin selectivity effect, but its underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
/
Article
Metrologists are using fundamental physics to define units of measure. Now NIST has developed new quantum sensors to measure and realize the pascal.
/
Article
Nanoscale, topologically protected whirlpools of spins have the potential to move from applications in spintronics into quantum science.
/
Article
The ability to communicate a key message clearly and concisely to a nonspecialized audience is a critical skill to develop at all educational levels.
This Content Appeared In
pt-cover_1968_05.jpeg

Volume 21, Number 5

Get PT newsletters in your inbox

pt_newsletter_card_blue.png
PT The Week in Physics

A collection of PT's content from the previous week delivered every Monday.

pt_newsletter_card_darkblue.png
PT New Issue Alert

Be notified about the new issue with links to highlights and the full TOC.

pt_newsletter_card_pink.png
PT Webinars & White Papers

The latest webinars, white papers and other informational resources.

By signing up you agree to allow AIP to send you email newsletters. You further agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.